Well we’ve reached the end of another year and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your continunous support. Lifestyle magazine and organising the events around it is my passion and I couldn’t do it without you! It’s been an incredible year, celebrating an incredible four and a half years of Lifestyle magazine on this gorgeous island. If you miss picking up a copy then you can always read it online on our website home page - www.lifestylelivingcyprus.com
This year has seen some of our best events ever, our highlight has been the Cyprus Lifestyle Fashion Show which we’re doing again on 3 May at Blue Spice in Pernera. We’re so excited and please get in touch if you’d like to get involved
Lifestyle magazine has reached over 10,000 businesses through networking groups across social media but I still love the excitement of meeting you face to face
Remember that Lifestyle is more than a magazine, it’s well, a lifestyle! I can help you grow your social media followers, attract new clients, make introductions to people who may be able help you. I can write your life story, draw up a press release and distribute it December wraps up a wonderful year and I hope you can celebrate in style. If you’re stuck for something to do, hopefully our events listed with give you some festive inspiration. Whatever you’re up to, stay stylish as ever and I wish you a very merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!
Sunday Roast at Lithos
If you’re craving some winter comfort food then Lithos Bar & Grill in Oroklini is not to be missed
Their delicious Sunday roast carvery will not leave you disappointed as they serve up roast joints of beef, pork, gammon and turkey
And they don’t scrimp on the meat servings either. After piling up my plate with the meat feasts there was hardly any room for the huge buffet of roast and mashed potatoes, roasted squash, mixed vegetables, cauliflower cheese, yorkshire puddings and assorted salads and toppings.
And with lashings of piping hot gravy poured all over my plate I was in food comfort heaven
Set in the heart of Oroklini village, Lithos Bar & Grill offers a very warm welcome to everyone with excellent service by friendly staff who are always attentive to your needs.
And not to be outdone by the lavish mains, I still found room, upon recommendation, for their fabulous home made deserts, sharing the enormous piece of carrot cake and warm apple pie, served with vanilla ice cream Generous portions and good value await you at Lithos Bar & Grill every day of the week, and if you can’t get to them, they offer a delivery service too at any time so you don’t miss out
Definitely one of the best roast dinners on the island for sure!
what’son in winter .....
CYPRUS WINE MUSEUM
Did you know that Cyprus is one of the first wine producing countries and so it makes sense to have a Wine Museum which is open all year round and makes it a perfect day trip at this time of year. Housed in a beautiful traditional Cypriot building that has been in the family for generations, The Cyprus Wine Museum was created as tribute to this integral part of the history of the island.
Erimi village, with its 5500 years history of wine making, is at the crossroads of the wine routes of Cyprus, in close proximity to the prehistoric settlement of Sotira, where the oldest remains of grape seeds have been found and near to Kollosi Castle, a medieval Commanderie of The Hospitaller Knights that give the name to the Commandaria Wine first produced by them, gives to Cyprus Wine Museum its perfect location.
The wine museum is located at the most important historical and trade crossroad of the island: The road between the ancient town of Kourion and the Commandaria Castle (Kolossi Castle) known as Knights’ Street and the road that leads to the wine villages of Limassol.
Throughout the year lectures, wine tasting sessions, performances and concerts are organized. Also, different educational programs aimed at school groups of all levels are applied.
It displays the indigenous to Cyprus grape varieties, as well as the history of one of the oldest and unique wines that are still produced in the world, Commandaria.
In the "St Hilarion" hall visitors have the opportunity to wine taste the museum line of products, which includes among other the unique wine varieties of Cyprus, as Xinisteri and Maratheftiko, the exclusive dessert wine 'Commandaria Orchestra' of various vintages and the selective Zivania grape spirit trilogy.
In the beautiful stone courtyards of the museum wine tastings, private dinners, weddings, concerts and other events and functions are organized all year round. 'Commandaria Orchestra' is the orchestra of the Cyprus Wine Museum which aims to spread thematic musical projects directly or indirectly related to the culture of Cyprus from antiquity to the present day.
Cyprus Wine Museum features a unique thematic exhibition and in collaboration with the Cyprus Museum presents a collection of archaeological findings and exhibits It provides visitors a unique journey and informs on the production, storage, use and trade of wine since antiquity. It also outlines the importance of the vine, grape and wine in the arts.
€15.00 Entry fee Includes 1. Entrance ticket to the Cyprus Wine Museum. 2. Wine Tasting of 4 different Cyprus Wine Museum Senses wines 3. Taste of Commandaria Orchestra, Vintage Dessert Wine 4. Taste of The Cyprus Wine Museum Senses Trilogy of Zivanias 5. Small platter of pairings
WINTER CELEBRATIONS IN AYIA NAPA
The Municipality of Agia Napa has prepared and presents a series of cultural events as part of the Cultural Winter 2024-2025 program. Currently, the schedule for the events that will take place up to December 19, 2024, with additional activities planned for January – March 2025 to be announced soon.
Through the Winter Cultural Program of Events, the Municipality aims to showcase Cypriot culture and local traditions to both residents and foreign visitors staying in the city during the winter, while also contributing to the enhancement of the region’s tourism product. The events will take place every Thursday in the Municipal Hall’s event room at 19:30, and admission is free to the public.
THURSDAY, 05.12.2024 – 19:30
Agia Napa Town Hall
“GREEK FOLK & REMBETIKO DANCES”
Dance Group “Yasoumeia” of Dasos Achna
THURSDAY, 12.12.2024 – 19:30
Agia Napa Town Hall
“ISLAND DANCES”
Cultural Group TH.O.I. Avgorou
THURSDAY, 19.12.2024 – 19:30
Agia Napa Town Hall
“JAZZY CHRISTMAS”
This season, Ayia Napa Marina becomes once again the ultimate holiday destination for kids and adults alike! From December 8 to 29, the Marina’s Christmas Village returns, amplifying the festive atmosphere with exciting events, exquisite flavors, and never-ending fun for the whole family.
The magic begins on December 8 with the lighting ceremony of the grand Christmas tree, accompanied by a spectacular fireworks show that will illuminate the sky of Ayia Napa. The opening ceremony will include live music by a symphonic orchestra, dazzling dance performances from a local school, and a two-hour DJ set promising to keep the festive spirit up.
The Christmas Village at Ayia Napa Marina offers a rich program of events and activities for the entire family. Our little friends can visit Santa’s workshop, enjoy face painting and balloon art, and participate in arts and crafts workshops. Meanwhile, unforgettable moments await the crowd at the Bubble House and the Christmas Inflatable. Theatrical performances, magic shows, elf and mascot parades, and screenings of Christmas movies at the Event Center create the heartwarming vibe everyone seeks during the holidays.
At the Christmas market, with its charming wooden houses, visitors will find festive treats traditional delicacies, street food, and warm drinks, and homemade arts and crafts
Inassocation with
FASHION SHOW
Following the huge succes of our debut Lifestyle Fashion Show in September, we are organsing our second show on3MayatBlueSpice.
We are currently on the look out for designers to participate, and they will receivethefollowing:
Models
Hair and make done by professionals
Setofphotos
Editorial presence in Lifestyle magazine
Brandingontheposter
Promo video for Youtybe (not exclusive)
4tickets
Stylistbackstage PRsupport
The Fashion Show is brought toyoubytheteamwhocreate Liverpool Fashion Week and they have a robust following, so this is guaranteed to elevateyourbrandandmake youmemorable.
Once again thank you to Island Homes for their support.
3MAY2025
Tickets will go on sale in the New Year and we do expect this to be sold out. Part of the proceeds of the tickets will bedonatedtoPASYKAF.
If you are a local artist, jewellry maker or craftsperson and would like to exhibit at the show then please get in touch.
The most elegant night of the year is almost here! And Cyprus is celebrating in five star style
RadissonBluHotelLarnaca
Celebrate the New Year in style and spend an unforgettableeveningwithlivemusicandenjoya delicious dinner at the 16th floor restaurant with stunningpanoramicviewsofthecity Don't miss the opportunity to create memories thatwilllastalifetime. Reservationsrequired.
TheGoldenBayHotelinLarnaca
Ringinthenewyearwithanexcitingprogramme of fine dining and lavish entertainment to keep you dancing until the early hours in Les Etoiles Hall. A delicious Gala Menu awaits you designed by the Executive Chef, Price 100E pp, children under1250euros reservations@goldenbay.com.cy
TheCiauStelioDeluxe
This stunning boutique hotel awaits a glamorous new years celebration. Their dedication to Their excellence has earned them numerous accolades and awards, including the esteemed TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice award in 2019, a recognition bestowed upon only 2% of hotels worldwide
They boast the closest proximity to Larnaka International Airport, a mere 4 km away.Nestled opposite the renowned Blue Flag Beach at MackenzieBeach,they'rejust100metersfromthe vibrantMackenzieBeachinfo@ciaostelio.com
TheAgoraHotel
Ring in the New Year with a spectacular celebration at The Agora Hotel! Their New Year’s Eve dinner promises a memorable night of indulgence, with a decadent multicourse meal, live music, and a celebratory countdowntowelcome2025instyle.
Start the night with cocktails and gourmet appetisers, followed by a special set menu dinneratNovél.DanceintotheNewYearwith DJ Claudio, a champagne toast at midnight, and a fireworks display in The Courtyard. The celebration continues late into the night with musicanddancing Tickets160eurospp
NewYear'sEveattheDiamondBallroom
Ring in the New Year with a breathtaking evening inspired by this year ' s theme "Waves to Wonders" Prepare to be mesmerized by Gabriele Rizzi's spectacular show that brings together international dancers, performers, andsingersforamagicaljourneybeneaththe sea.
From captivating portrayals of sea goddesses and ocean creatures to the grand celebration of the New Year, this interactive show is filled with unforgettable moments. After midnight, a DJwilltakethestage,keepingtheenergyalive with lively beats as we dance our way into 2025
The evening's culinary offerings will include a sumptuous buffet, expertly crafted by our Executive Chef with the theme in mind. Our youngerguestscanenjoytheirowndedicated buffet menu and an awesome program full of activities hosted by our "Explorers Kids Club" team in the Park Room, from 9:00 PM to 12:00 AM.
Adults: €380 including a welcoming glass of Champagne, Soft Drinks and Water Wines and Spirits
GENESIS AI HEARING
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Now, picture starting each day with confidence in knowing you will stay informed, feel independent, and maintain connections with your friends, family, and community while embracing the simple joys of listening to nature, music, TV, movies and more.
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Genesis AI is that hearing aid
Completely reimagined starting with the processor inside, Starkey’s all-new, groundbreaking Genesis AI hearing aids are designed to help more people than ever hear better and live better.
Experiencethemosttrue-to-lifesoundyet
Wearing assistive technology like hearing aids can take some getting usedto Soyoucan’thelpbutgetexcitedbyahearingaidlikeGenesisAI that works and feels like an extension of you: Not only do Genesis AI hearing aids provide true-to-life sound quality, but they also continuously take care of your hearing needs as they arise just like yourbrainwould.
GenesisAIsbettermimicthewaywehear
Genesis AI hearing aids contain innovative Neuro Sound Technology, which allows the hearing aids to better replicate how the human brain processessound
They’resosmart,theythinklikeyoudo By mimicking the cerebral cortex of your brain, Genesis AI “fills in the gaps” when your hearing is impaired. They help you hear those missed soundsquicklyandaccurately,soyouneverhavetomissamoment.
They’resofast,theyadaptbeforeyoucan Genesis AI hearing aids make over 80 million personalized adjustments every hour. So you can count on better hearing wherever you are or whateveryou’redoing withouthavingtodoanything
New Blog
DREAM GIRL ERA
It’s approaching the time of year when we overindulge in tasty treats and let’s face it, why shouldn’t we? It’s cold and miserable outside and it makes us feel a bit better And a little bit of something naughty can make you feel nice. But then comes the guilt and ridiculous self loathing with the gyms bombarding everyone to join them for the “new year, new you” monotonous trend.
I am so sick of the body shaming piled on us to look a certain way Some of us are not built to be skinny. I have big boobs and a big bum, and not only do I accept it, but I embrace it now, in case you haven’t noticed my multiple bikini selfies
And why the hell not? I listened to a podcast on my regular 10k walk this morning and it was all about getting into your Dream Girl Era It was about loving and accepting yourself and not changing yourself to fit into society’s expectations of how you are supposed to be.
So what is th Dream Girl Era? It’s visualising who you want to be as a woman so that you can become the best version of yourself. It’s about talking to yourself in a kind way and instead of pointing out your physical faults, you start talking to yourself kindly
It’s ok to tell yourself you look good, it ok to have a little aesthetics enhancement if it makes you feel better about yourself It’s your body and you can do what you want with it
We are all unique and that makes us interesting and wonderful and it’s time to embrace what makes you, well, YOU
Entering the Dream Girl Era means you’re ready to step up to become the person you’ve always aspired
I
to be.
You don’t need money. You don’t need a flash gym membership, you just need your imagination to visualise who you want to be
My friend has started seeing this guy and she’s developed anxiety wondering when he is going to message her next “What if he’s changed his mind about me? What if he didn’t like seeing me naked” she said? I told her to stop trashing herself and reminded her that she was an absolute badass who shoudl take control of the situation
Message him, you’re not 15 and if he doesn’t respond then move on. You’re not hanging around for anyone’s approval I told her And I have yet to meet a man who doesn’t adore seeing a naked woman in front of him.
Stepping into your Dream Girl Era means you shed all the insecurities and embrace who you are You look at everything you’ve achieved rather focusing on the failures . Everyone fails at something, it’s life and without failure we don’t learn lessons to be better people in our business and relationships But the relationship with yourself is the most important one and longest one you will ever have so make it worthwhile
We are not here to make others happy. We are not here to please others, we are not here to put our wants and needs behind everyone’s elses
What are the safety instructions on a flight? Put your own mask on first before you help others. And that’s the simple rule in life. You have all the tools to become the best version of yourself and it starts with being accountable for yourself.
I am on my way to being a Dream Girl. I have non negotiable terms to my day, for example I will not attend a meeting before 11am because I have to go to my daily spin class at 9.30am. It sets me up mentally and physically for the day.
by Amanda Moss
I love who I have become Of course I have fears, I am not invincible, but I have this confidence that I never used to have that has come from stepping into my power I know what I want and I am going out to get it We’re often told that we should rebrand our business to create an authentic and meaningful connection with your clients but we need to do the same with ourselves. Humans are not supposed to be static, we are programmed to move and grow. A change in direction can motivate and inspire you to do things you never dreamed of It maybe as simple as slipping into an outfit you told yourself you wouldn’t normally be seen dead in
We are not here for long on earth so live your best life with gusto and close down the chatter from people who don’t approve of your choices. They aren’t living your life and their opinion doesn’t matter Be the Dream Girl you were born to be.
engaging with 60,000 professional accounts on social media every month
About me:
NETWORKING GROUP: THE CYPRUS BLUE TITS
I'm born a Kent girl and grew up in Folkestone. I moved to Cyprus in 2004 as my parents has moved here the year before as my dad worked in Dubai.
I met my husband Chris who is Cypriot but grew up in North London. Within a year we were married, pregnant and buying our first home! A few years ago I got my Cypriot citizenship woop woop!!
So....The Cyprus Blue Tits!!
Where I'm from in Folkestone there is a group called the Blue Tits that swim all year, the name always tickled me, so thought it would be perfect to have our own Cyprus group.
Why did I come up with the group?
To be honest I didn't actually think anyone would join. I was going to do it last year but talked myself out of it, because who is gonna wanna swim in winter with me? Erm apparently quite a few people!! Over 140 on the page now!! I live to bring people together, we need these social groups, people are lonely, and I think belonging to something is essential for humans to thrive. After covid we were isolated and divided, so we need to start pulling together again, we neeeeed each other!! Mental health is as essential as physical.
There is no criteria to join!! Any age, size it doesn't matter... just be female!! We meet every Wednesday weather permitting and I'm going to try to do at least 2 Saturdays a month for those not free in the week.
What else do I do?
I work all summer for a certain holiday company collecting suitcases.
I also run a ladies fitness group called Fab Fit Fun Frenaros. We are ladies doing home workouts from the TV together. We raise money to help support a non profit organisation called Ergastiri Apoplous. They provide very affordable clubs for children such as Taekwondo, chess, robotics, to name a few! The money we raise helps the club cover running costs.
Christmas will be spent here in Cyprus as one of my sons is doing national service so we don't know when he will be out. I will do the traditional Christmas dinner and drink my weight in Baileys ha ha!!
What do I love about my lifestyle?
What's not to love!!! I live on the most beautiful island, surrounded by amazing people, I'm safe, im Healthy, and have this amazing community that support me and my crazy ideas! Life is just perfect!!
The Cyprus Blue Tits will be meeting on Landa beach on Boxing Day for a special family fun swim. For more information follow The Cyprus Blue Tits on facebook
With Manish Kumar Arora
Leo (23 July – 22 August) - You'll have to cope with a very demanding, tiresome and stressful period.This is a month for putting in that initial effort that will yield positive results in the future. Love will be subjected to analysis and maybe even become a reason for worry
Aries ( 21 March – 19 April ). Your career related decisions will go very smoothly. Ambitions to study, teach, travel, write, move or export your ideas will take offthis month. The desire for a warm and harmonious relationship gives you a tender, kind and affectionate behaviour.
Taurus ( 20 April – 20 May ) - This is an excellent month for budgetmaking, asking for a raise and discovering new ways to boost your income. Office milieu will be great and new creative ideas will make your month. You will be forging many new friendships that will bring fun and even love into your life.
Virgo ( 23 August – 22 September ) –This month will see you getting more experienced and clearing all the differences of opinions to work in collaboration with colleagues. Your ambitions would be very high, nourishing your wish to succeed.You'll be very sensitive emotionally speaking and your need for love will be accordingly.
Sagittarius ( 22 November -21 December ) - You will have a happy time on the personal front. With spouse or love, a great time is indicated as you will get to express your deep feelings, which will bring closeness and intensity in your life. Professionally, you will have a happy state of mind.
Capricorn ( 22 December – 19 January )–This is the time to join forces with someone who shares your financial, property and business goals and then pursue the outcome.If you are in a relationship this is the ideal time for making a long term commitment to that special someone in your life.
Gemini ( 21 May – 20 June ) - Work is a scurry of activity and this period also favours stepping up physical activity or health routines. Creativity, information and ingenuity are the most valuable trump cards on your way to success.Your charm runs very high and a love relationship reaches new depths of understanding.
Cancer( 21 June – 22 July ) -Your innovative ideas and skills will come into limelight professionally. Sharing is the key to a happy life this month. You are feeling very contented on the home front.You will win hearts of all your loved ones by showing them love.
Libra ( 23 September – 22 October )You'll focus energetically on profession and social accomplishment and this period will give you the opportunity to advance, to gain authority, admiration or fame. You will become more understanding and caring and will make your close ones very happy by expressing your feelings.
Scorpio ( 23 October – 21 November ) –This is an excellent month for personal finances. It is a time of gathering your resources for the days ahead. Your communication skills will come into light which will bring you gains. A lover or partner pays a lot of attention to you and it feels fabulous.
Aquarius ( 20 January – 18 February ) – You are likely to enjoy your increased exposure and recognition on a professional level. Increased responsibilities continue to be an issue in your life, but you feel more in control.You are romantic and imaginative, but other interests will pressure you and you won't be able to manifest freely.
Pisces ( 19 February – 20 March )–A busy month that involves plenty of errand-running, tending to paperwork, and attending appointments is in store for you. Love this month is rather businesslike as well, or could be found through professional contacts.
EMPOWERMENTCOACH
Turning tragedy into triumph
Hello, I’m Louise! I’m a certified mindfulness mentor, personal empowerment coach, and children’s well-being specialist, offering unique programs tailored to help men, women,andchildrenexperiencetruehealing, self-discovery, and empowerment My passion lies in creating safe, supportive spaces for you and your loved ones to grow, heal, and find renewed strength. My programs focus on transforming lives through themes like: • Empowerment & Motivation: Practical steps to feel stronger and more motivated in life, whether you’re just starting out or overcoming challenges. • Self-Love & Self-Worth: Guided exercises that buildupselfesteem,setpersonalboundaries and foster resilience • Healing Meditations & Mindfulness: Relaxing practices to calm the mind,reduceanxiety,andhelpyoureconnect with the present moment. • Grief Support: Compassionate,mindfulapproachestohelp
process loss and find inner peace. • Anxiety & Negative Thought Patterns: Techniques to shift unhelpful thoughts, manage stress, and increase emotional resilience. • Boundaries & Respect: Tools for fostering healthier relationships by nurturing respect and establishing strong personal boundaries • Abuse Recovery Support: Gentle guidance for those healing from mental, physical, or emotional trauma, empowering you to reclaim your life. • Parent-Child Bonding & Support: Programs designed to strengthen family connections and help parents navigate life’s challenges with mindfulness and compassion I also provide support to parents and caregivers who are seeking direction or who want to introduce mindfulness and emotional wellbeing practices into their family life. Every session, whether 1:1 or in group settings, is designed to meet unique needs with empathy, authenticity, and adaptability. If you’re ready to begin your journey of healing, empowerment, and personal growth, let’s connect! Together, we can create positive, lasting change I am also a qualified manifestation coach and A qualified mindfulness coach A children’s creative yoga teacher I am qualified in level 2 counselling and have gone through so many personal experiences so coach and guide with sensitivity and empathy My Facebook page is called walk the empowered path with Louisepersonal coach My signature programes are calledsomethinginsidesostrong
Benefits of using a hot tub in winter
The experience of sitting in warm water outdoors when it is below feeezing is not only unique but also brings various benefits to your physical and mental wellbeing.Winterisoneofthe toughest times of year for many people and a hot tub provides an escape from harsh weather & dark days . Here are just some of the benefits:
ENJOYSTARGAZING
Gazingattheawe-inspiringcanvas of the cosmos activates a host of benefits.Indeed,awecontributesto making you healthier, happier, morehumble,andmoreconnected to the people around you. It also calms the nervous system and triggers the release of the “love” hormone oxytocin. For many, awe startsinchildhood.
SLEEPBETTER
Enjoying a soak in a hot tub about 90 minutes before bed will calm you and also signal to your body that bedtime is near. After soaking in your hot tub, your body cools, andasyourbodytemperaturefalls, younaturallygetdrowsy.Climbing into bed feeling calm and comfortable helps you fall asleep faster.
IMPROVESCIRCULATION
Ahottubcanincreasebloodflowin a similar manner to exercising. Thereforehottubbinginwinterand theincreasedcirculationitbringsis important to looking after your cardiovascularsystem.
WARMSYOUUP
Whatbetterwaytowarmupthan soaking in 38 degree water with hydrotherapy from the massage jetsrelievinganyachesandpains atthesametime!
LOSEWEIGHT
Winter can be a tough period for motivation especially when it comes to exercise and healthy eating. After a period of indulgence during Christmas, January is a chance to set new fitnessandhealthgoals.Hottubs can be a great way to assist in your weight loss journey and 60 minutes in a hotel tub can burn 100calories.
IMPROVEMENTALHEALTH
Ahottubprovidesagreatwayto connect with family/friends and get away from the stresses of everyday life. This has a direct impact on mental wellbeing. It has also been proven by a study that hot water therapy gives similar benefits to exercise in terms of blood flow, body temperature and heart rate. This helps to increase serotonin and dopamine in your body while decreasing cortisol and epinephrine levels, which improves our overall mental wellbeing.
MUSCLERECOVERY
Soaking in a hot tub provides the benefit of hydrotherapy. This can increase the blood flow from the extremities into the core and speed up the processing of lactic acid. which directly helps with musclerecoveryandhealing.
CONNECT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS
We generally find ourselves indoors and relying on technology to keep us entertained during harsh weather however this technology can sometimes prevent deep and meaningful connection with others. A hot tub provides a space away from technology in order to connectwithfamilyandfriends and during winter this can be especiallyvaluable.
SPICEUPROMANCE
The warm water and soothing jets can create an intimate setting that is perfect for sharing your thoughts and feelingswitheachother.
CAN EASE SYMPTOMS OF A COMMONCOLD
The warm water raises your body temperature, which in turn dilates the blood vessels, improving circulation.It also stimulates nerves to boost the immunesystemandthesteam decongests a stuffy nose helping you breathe more easily.
Coping withChristm
MONEY:
It can be tough to cope with the financial pressures of Christmas. This can be especially difficult if you ' re already struggling with money, here are some tips to help you:
Makelists,plansorabudget.Noting things down can make them feel moremanageableorhelpyouthink more clearly Creating a budget could also help you feel more in controlofwhatyoucanspend.
Be open with others. It can be hard to talk about money But being honest with others can help You maybeabletoagreewaystomake Christmas plans free or low cost. Or they might be able to offer other kinds of support Ask family to split the bill of the Christmas dinner whichcanrunupto£hundreds.
Look for free or low-cost items online You may be able to find free items to use as gifts or decorations online, for example through websiteslikeFreecycle.
ry to avoid comparisons with the Christmas you see in adverts and social media These often don't reflect reality and can make us feel bad about ourselves. It may help to takebreaksfromsocialmedia.
Be kind to yourself Money worries can have a big impact on our mental health. They might make us feel concerned, embarrassed or angry And they can affect selfesteem Trynottoblameyourselffor your situation or how you ' re feeling aboutit.
I don't really celebrate Christmas and always enjoy taking the day
as time just for me, a whole day of self-care and selfishness!
FAMILY
Take time out. Do something to forget that it's Christmas or distract yourself. Forexample,youcouldwatchafilmor read a book that's set in the summer Oryoucouldtrylearninganewskill
Set healthy boundaries and don’t invite people you don’t like, just becausethey’refamily.Christmascan beintenseandaggravateanxietyand depression so avoid places and peoplethatcouldtriggerthis.
Think about how to end difficult conversations It’s okay to tell someone you do not wan about something, or to ch subject. It might help to prac youwillsay.
MENTALHEALTH
Christmas can be difficult fo atanypointintheirlife You might be struggling thi the first time. Or you may h Christmasdifficultinthepas aredreadingitagainthisyea YoumayalsoenjoyChristma be able to celebrate it how y like Or you might find so enjoyable but other parts st
If you cannot avoid something difficult, plan something for yourself afterwards to help reduce the stress or distress you mightfeel.
You don’t have to justify yourself to others But you might feel pressured to, especially if someone asks a lot of questions. It could help to let them know that certain situations are difficult for you, and tell them what they can do to help. It might also help to tell them that you understand they may see thingsinadifferentway
You might not be able to make others understand. That is okay It’s not your responsibility to convince other people, or get their permission to look after yourself.
