Ah, the Christmas count down. For some, this is a wonderful time of year filled with fun, family, winter activities and lots of food… And for those who are hosting, it can be filled with dread, stress and carefully put together spreadsheets.

No matter what part you play in the big day, we can all agree it can be a little overwhelming so we’re here to give you out top tips on how you can try and elevate the stress leading up to the big day.

1. Start Early, Plan Ahead

Feeling like you have too much to do and not enough time to do it can be stressful. You can prevent this stress by planning ahead and taking control of the situation, whether that be pre-planning what you’re going to gift someone or cutting up the veggies the day before – this can save time, stress and much needed money!

2. Keep calm and go for a swim

During this time, you might think there aren’t enough hours in the day to be able to fit in any time for yourself. Well, think again. There is ALWAYS room for you to make time for yourself.

Taking yourself off for 30 minutes and going for a quick swim to reset might just be what you needed to regain control. Not only is it a great way for physical exercise but it’s a great state changer for the mind.

A state change is taking yourself away from the current situation and changing your surroundings for a short amount of time, so when you return your mind is clearer, less stressed and more productive, and swimming is a great way to do just that.

3. It’s OK

Christmas is never perfect. There’s never enough Yorkshire puddings, you feel you’ve not done enough and someone is always going to pick a disagreement with Dad, but learning to accept life isn’t perfect and running with it, can reduce a significant amount of stress leading up to the big day.

4. Remember the reason for the season

Too often we focus so much on making Christmas perfect rather than appreciating the moments leading up to and on the big day. So on the run up to Christmas this year, when you’re starting to feel the strain of the day looming over you, remember that it is going to be fine and being with your loved ones is all that really matters.