We’re told it’s the most wonderful time of the year but Christmas can be a really stressful period for many people.

Worries about loss, finances and relationships, as well as bereavement, loneliness and expectation can surface at this time of the year.

And this year, with the pandemic, Brexit and so much uncertainty swirling around, many people may feel unable to cope.

Self-care

Our member Lina Mookerjee says now is the time to look at your self-care, and that of family, friends and loved ones.

And Lina, a counsellor and psychotherapist based in Nottingham, has offered psychological and physical tips to help over the holiday period.

Mental wellbeing

“Acknowledge how you’re feeling because how you’re feeling is real,” she said. “If you’re feeling a bit down, it’s okay to be down.

“Name how you’re feeling and journal your reflections from the day.

“That’s the thing with emotions, we can name it, acknowledge it, it does start to pass.”

Lina added: “Keep healthy company in friends who care about you.

“Learn to cultivate a period of silence in your waking day – five minutes is a good start – to calm down the effects from all the noise around you.”

Physical wellbeing

Her tips to maintain your physical wellbeing include staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

“Keep a check on or reduce foods and drinks that stress your body as you have agency here,” said Lina, who recently shared her wellbeing tips with Notts TV. “These include caffeine, alcohol, sugar, salt and nicotine.

“Learn to breathe more fully and evenly. Diaphragmatic and abdominal breathing practices help to recalibrate stressed shallow breathing and restore regulating of energy.

“And get outdoors every day and be with nature. Get away from mobile technology and virtual worlds and into the world of tangible reality.”

Therapy can help

Counselling can also help. It provides a safe and confidential space for you to talk to a trained professional about your issues and concerns.

A BACP therapist will help you explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours so you can develop a better understanding of yourself and of others.

Find a BACP therapist near you by visiting our directory.