Coming Soon

Christmas is often described as “the most wonderful time of the year,” yet for many of us it brings pressure, the inability to say no, and emotional overload. From keeping everyone in the family happy, to financial costs and back-to-back social plans, your brain can quickly shift into stress mode.

When this happens, the amygdala , the brain’s alarm system, becomes more active. It interprets busyness, pressure, and conflict as threats, triggering the fight-or-flight response. This can show up as irritability, anxiety, trouble sleeping and even anger.

At the same time, the prefrontal cortex, your rational brain, responsible for calm thinking and decision-making, begins to tire. This makes it harder to say “no,” set boundaries, or even recognise when you’ve reached your limit.

In other words: a busy festive calendar can make your emotional brain shout louder and your logical brain whisper.

Part 2 coming next week

Pause before you say “yes”

A brief pause helps you to step out of stress mode and move into being more rational about everything . How about having  three slow breaths, they can give your brain the space it needs to respond rather than react.

Set simple boundaries

You don’t need to explain yourself in detail. A gentle “I’d love to, but I can’t this time” protects your energy and helps regulate your nervous system. Saying “no” creates space for your brain to recover and reduces overwhelm.

Tune into your body

Your body often knows before your mind does. Tight shoulders, a sinking stomach, or a racing mind are signs your nervous system is overworking. Use them as cues to rest or step back.

Choose what nourishes you

Your brain thrives on meaningful, not obligatory, connection. Pick the traditions, people, and moments that genuinely bring you joy and let go what brings you down

Give yourself permission to slow down

Rest is not selfish, it’s an essential for emotional health. When you allow time for quiet, your brain shifts out of survival mode and into a state where you can think clearly and truly enjoy christmas.