The Christmas season is a whirlwind, isn’t it? Sparkly lights, endless to-do lists, family gatherings, and enough Bublé on repeat to make your ears beg for mercy. For many, this season of "joy" can feel like a season of juggling flaming candy canes while walking a tightrope. And let’s be real—how often do you find yourself sacrificing yourself to keep up appearances, all to keep everyone else happy?

Well, here’s your permission slip: STOP IT.

This Christmas, I invite you to prioritise something revolutionary—YOU.

Why Is Christmas So Challenging?

Let’s get to the heart of it. The holidays often come with:

• Unrealistic expectations (thanks, Instagram-perfect Christmas tables).

• Family dynamics that can stir up old patterns.

• A push to "do it all"—host, cook, buy the perfect gifts, and never let that festive smile slip.

But what if you chose not to play along with the hustle? What if you rewrote the script, swapping "people-pleasing burnout" for "soul-nourishing bliss"?

This doesn’t mean turning into the Grinch and barricading yourself away. It’s about finding balance—carving out sacred time for yourself amidst the tinsel and toasts.

Permission Granted: Give Yourself What You Need

Permission Slip #1: Unplug from the Noise
The constant stream of texts, calls, and notifications doesn’t need your attention 24/7. Take a digital detox, even for an afternoon. Let people wonder why you’re not replying instantly. Spoiler alert: the world won’t implode.

Use that silence to do something soul-nourishing:

• Wander barefoot in nature.

• Sit by the ocean and listen to the waves.

• Lie under a tree and watch the leaves dance.

Permission Slip #2: Play Hooky—Yes, Really!
Who said you have to attend every party, every dinner, every festive obligation? It’s okay to bow out. Politely decline, pour yourself a glass of something delicious, and revel in the luxury of doing absolutely nothing.

Feeling cheeky? Channel your inner rebel:

• Sneak off for an early morning swim while the world sleeps.

• Take yourself to a cozy café for a long, uninterrupted coffee.

• Curl up with that novel you’ve been dying to read.

Permission Slip #3: Arm Yourself with a "Secret Weapon"
Here’s the thing about the holidays: they’ll throw all sorts of curveballs your way. But what if you had a tool to keep your spirit bright, your mind clear, and your heart grounded?

My secret weapon? Deep, soul-nourishing meditation. It's a total game-changer when it comes to staying centred amidst chaos. The best part? You can learn this tool with me, no matter where you live. Whether you're cozied up at home or sneaking in some self-care between festivities, I'll show you how to make this practice yours.

Imagine navigating the holidays like a boss—calm, unshakable, and free from taking on everyone else’s stuff. Ready to claim that for yourself? Let’s make it happen. Book a call here (Not Christmas, Boxing or New years Day!)

Permission Slip #4: Honour Your Energy
Listen to your body—it’s smarter than you think. If you’re feeling drained, skip the sixth round of charades or listening to another music recital and retreat to recharge. Your real friends and family will understand (and if they don’t, that’s their work to do, not yours).

How to Create Space for Yourself

1. Schedule It Like It’s Sacred
   Put your “me time” on the calendar and treat it as non-negotiable as Christmas dinner. Whether it’s an hour to meditate, journal, or nap, block it out and fiercely protect it.

2. Communicate Clearly
   Setting boundaries doesn’t make you the Christmas villain—it makes you someone who values their mental health. Be kind but firm:

• “I won’t be able to make it, but I hope you have a lovely time.”

• “I need a quiet morning to recharge, so I’ll join the festivities later.”

3. Create Micro-Moments of Joy
   If carving out big chunks of time feels impossible, focus on smaller moments:

• Five minutes of deep breathing before the chaos starts.

• A walk around the block between courses.

• Lighting a candle and sipping tea in silence after everyone’s gone to bed.

A Christmas Wish for You 🎁

This holiday season, I wish you the courage to:

• Say no without guilt.

• Put your happiness at the top of your list.

• Dance to your own rhythm (even if it’s not a Christmas carol).

Take a deep breath and know it’s okay to choose you. Play hooky. Swim in the ocean. Read the book. Unplug from the noise.

And if you’re ready to arm yourself with a life-changing secret weapon to keep your spirit glowing bright, I’ve got you covered. Let’s connect over the holidays and elevate your tools for self-care, no matter where you are.

Because when you take care of yourself, you light up from within—and that, my friend, is the most beautiful gift you can give the world.

With love and a whole lot of sass,
Zoe-Anna 💖