The festive season is painted as a time of joy with the twinkling lights, cosy gatherings, warm drinks, and togetherness. And yes, there is magic in the air.

But there can also be… chaos.

Packed calendars. Endless errands. Emotional expectations. Travel logistics.

We often slide into the season thinking, “I just need to get through this.”

But what if we didn’t just survive it?

What if we actually felt calm?

Calm doesn’t just happen; it’s something we create with intention.

Here’s how to find stillness in the noise, peace in the pace, and presence in a season that tries to sweep us along.

Start with a “White Space” Calendar

Before you add events to your calendar, block out time for rest.

Literally schedule it:

• Evenings with nothing planned
• A morning to stay in pyjamas
• A walk alone or with someone who grounds you

 
Protect these like any other commitment.

Your rest time is not optional – it’s essential.

Choose one thing that matters most and let the rest be extra.

Instead of trying to do everything, pick one thing that makes the season feel special.

It might be:

• Baking one recipe
• Watching a favourite Christmas film
• Attending one meaningful event

 
When you decide what matters most, you remove the pressure to do it all.

Create small rituals of calm.

Rituals anchor us.

Try:

• Slow mornings with soft music and warm drinks
• A candle you only light during December
• A nightly moment of gratitude

 
These tiny touchpoints become reminders to breathe.

Practice the “Two Yeses Rule”Before saying yes to anything, ask yourself:

• Does my body say yes?
• Does my schedule say yes?

 
If either answer is no, it’s a no.

A graceful line to use:

“Thank you so much for thinking of me, this year I’m keeping things simple.”

Boundaries don’t require explanation.

Build a calm corner

Create a space that’s just for you, no wrapping paper, no laundry piles.
Just:

• A blanket
• A favourite book or journal
• A cup of something warm

 
Your nervous system needs a landing place.

Breathe before you react

When emotions rise (because they will), use this grounding breath:

Inhale for 4…….Hold for 4………Exhale for 6

You can do this at the dinner table without anyone knowing.

Ask yourself the question that changes everything

Am I doing this out of joy or obligation?

Permission granted to choose joy.

A gentle reminder

Calm is not found in having less to do.

Calm is found in doing things with less pressure.

This season is not about achieving the perfect festive moment.

It’s about being present enough to notice the beautiful ones already happening.

Here’s to a quieter, kinder December, one that leaves space for breath, warmth, and the kind of joy that doesn’t need to be photographed to be real.