Self Care at Christmas


At a recent workshop, I was surprised to hear so many speak of the desire to step out of the frantic energy that seems to be around this time of year in the run up to Christmas. My surprise was not just that so many named it, but that I too was feeling it, and I too was glad of the pause.

For some reason this time of year seems to bring out an urgency in us, to buy presents, food and drink, to clean our houses, to 001redecorate, to lose weight, to complete projects, as if it were not just the end of the calendar year, and a holiday period, but the end of our existence as we know it. A death. And indeed, the winter and its solstice is a form of death, the shortest day, more dark than light.

Therapy practice can be both challenging and financially unpredictable at this time. For some, the approaching break is a good time to think about finishing up. For others, the holiday period is a very stressful time, and can trigger old destructive behaviours. Client and therapists alike are trying to juggle appointments, social engagements and a limited reserve of money.

If you’ve been finding it hard to get work, there may be a temptation to take whatever comes your way. I certainly did that in the early years after I first qualified. Aware of the additional strains that the season places on everyone, I started new work in the run up to Christmas, I arranged my holidays so as to minimise disruption for my clients, and I agreed to see new clients at times to suit them. As a result, my own break was less than adequate.

006Therapists are tired at this time of year too. The work can be difficult at times, and a decent break is essential to renew our energy and return to the work refreshed. How could you better look after your own needs this Christmas? Could you invest your time and energy in resting and recuperating? How could you allow family and friends to be a support to you? It is a gift to the world to be a generous giver, but it is a gift to givers to be generous in receipt.

If you struggle with your finances at this unpredictable time, you might also like to read my post on managing seasonality (click here). And if I can help you with any aspect of running your practice, please contact me here to make an appointment or to avail of your free 20 minute consultation.