Downtime ideas: how to stay relaxed and focused this festive season

Collaborative Post | The festive season is a time for celebration, but it can also bring stress, especially when juggling family, work, and personal commitments. For women over 50, the holidays can feel overwhelming as the pressure to balance everything mounts. However, it’s essential to take time for yourself during this busy period. ​

Three Red and Gray Bauble Ornaments · Free Stock Photo

Embrace mindfulness and meditation

Mindfulness and meditation are highly effective tools for staying calm and focused, especially during the hectic holiday season. These practices help reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and bring you back to the present moment.

Even five to ten minutes of mindfulness each day can make a significant difference. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing. If your mind wanders, gently refocus on your breath. Apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided meditations, making it easier to get started. Mindfulness can help you detach from the holiday hustle, allowing you to truly enjoy the season.

Play games to relax and have fun

​Playing games is a fun way to relax and unwind. Whether it’s board games, video games, or online casino games, games can provide a welcome distraction from holiday stress. Board games like Monopoly, and Scrabble, or newer options like Ticket to Ride are great for fun with friends and keeping your mind engaged. They offer an opportunity to bond while enjoying some friendly competition.

For solo relaxation, video games can provide an immersive escape. Whether it's puzzle games like Candy Crush, interactive experiences like The Sims, or story-driven games like Animal Crossing, video games allow you to unwind and focus on something enjoyable. Multiplayer games also provide a social outlet, allowing you to connect with others, whether they are friends or fellow gamers.

Online casino games like poker, slots, or blackjack can be both relaxing and entertaining, especially if you’re looking for a little thrill. Platforms offering online casino games allow you to unwind in the comfort of your home. When wagering within the UK, players can bet online at domestic sites that are part of GamStop or international sites that bypass GamStop regulations. Increasingly, non-GamStop casinos are growing popular as they offer more flexible betting options along with a larger selection of games. 

Games of all kinds—board games, video games, and online casino games—are a great way to engage your mind, relax, and bring some fun into your festive downtime.

Indulge in a good book or audiobook

Reading can be a perfect way to take a break from holiday stress. Whether it’s a festive novel or an inspiring non-fiction book, diving into a good story helps you unwind and escape the holiday rush.

If you prefer a more passive approach, audiobooks are a wonderful option. You can listen to a book while doing other activities, like cooking or relaxing in a cozy chair. Audiobook platforms like Audible offer a wide range of genres, from lighthearted holiday stories to educational books that can inspire personal growth. Reading or listening to audiobooks offers relaxation while fostering creativity and mental engagement.

Pamper yourself with self-care rituals

Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is key to staying relaxed during the festive season. Self-care rituals can provide time to recharge and focus on your health.

Consider a relaxing bath with essential oils or a soothing face mask to unwind. A calming skincare routine or spending a few moments to yourself in a quiet space can help reduce stress and bring a sense of peace. Gentle activities like yoga or stretching exercises are also beneficial for releasing physical tension and boosting your mental clarity.

Engaging in self-care rituals not only nurtures your body but also helps you stay grounded and focused during the busy holiday season.

Stay active with low-impact exercise

While it’s easy to neglect physical activity during the holidays, staying active is essential for both mental and physical health. Simple exercises like walking or stretching can help reduce stress, improve your mood, and keep you energized.

A daily walk—whether through the neighborhood, a park, or even at a shopping mall—can clear your mind and refresh you. Gentle exercises like Tai Chi or Pilates focus on balance and flexibility, making them ideal for women over 50 who want to stay fit and calm during the holiday season. These exercises provide a perfect way to stay active without overwhelming yourself.

Practice gratitude

The holidays can sometimes feel chaotic, but taking a moment each day to reflect on what you're grateful for can bring a sense of calm. Gratitude has been shown to improve mental health, reduce stress, and increase overall satisfaction in life.

Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you’re thankful for each day. This simple practice shifts your mindset, helping you focus on the positive aspects of your life and the holiday season. Ending your day with gratitude can set a peaceful tone for the evening and help you stay focused on what truly matters.


Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.