By the time December rolls around, most people are running on empty. The pressures of work deadlines, school events, Christmas preparation, social obligations, and family commitments can leave anyone feeling stretched thin, especially if you’re also adjusting to separation, co-parenting arrangements or big life changes.

The good news? You don’t need a three-week holiday or a complete lifestyle overhaul to feel more balanced. Sometimes small, intentional choices can make the biggest difference. Here are gentle, realistic ways to rest your mind and body during the busiest time of the year.

1. Start by acknowledging your limits

December often brings a sense of “just push through,” but recognising your own capacity is the first step in preventing burnout.

It’s okay to:

• say no
• cancel plans
• reduce your to-do list
• rest without feeling guilty
• ask for help.

When you protect your energy, you create space for what genuinely matters.

2. Schedule downtime like an appointment

If rest is not scheduled, it’s often the first thing to disappear. Try blocking time in your calendar for:

• quiet mornings
• a long walk
• an early night
• a slow breakfast
• a “no plans” day during the school holidays.

Treat rest as essential- not optional.

3. Create simple, soothing rituals

Rituals help rebalance the mind by creating consistency and calm. Even five minutes can shift your nervous system. Some ideas include:

• a cup of tea outside each morning
• a short breathing or grounding exercise
• lighting a candle at the end of the day
• gentle stretching
• listening to relaxing music
• a nightly gratitude list.

These moments don’t have to be perfect, they just need to be yours.

4. Reconnect with nature

Time outside is one of the most accessible and therapeutic ways to recharge. Try:

• a walk around Lake Burley Griffin
• a picnic on the grass
• sitting under a tree with a book
• visiting a local park with the kids
• watching the sunset
• bare feet in the grass or sand.

Nature has a way of pulling us back into the present moment and easing emotional overwhelm.

5. Protect your boundaries - without apology

December can bring an avalanche of invitations and expectations.
If you’re navigating separation, co-parenting arrangements or emotional healing, boundaries are essential for your wellbeing. You might choose to:

• limit social events
• avoid topics or gatherings that feel heavy
• simplify Christmas Day
• decline anything that drains your energy
• communicate your needs clearly.

Boundaries don’t create distance — they create emotional safety.

6. Prioritise rest over perfection

Sometimes, the pressure to “make Christmas magical” leads to exhaustion. Gifts don’t need to be extravagant. Meals don’t need to be flawless. Decorations don’t need to be Instagram-worthy. Children remember:

• warmth
• laughter
• presence
• not rushing.

Letting go of perfection makes space for genuine connection.

7. Share the load when you can

Whether you’re co-parenting or spending the holidays with friends or extended family, you don’t have to do everything alone. Consider delegating:

• cooking
• gift wrapping
• hosting
• school holiday activities
• errands or preparation tasks.

Most people are more than willing to help when invited into the process.

8. Give yourself permission to rest emotionally too

For many people, December brings complex emotions including grief, nostalgia, loneliness, or relief.
Rest doesn’t only mean physical stillness; it means emotional breathing room. Ways to support emotional rest include:

• journalling
• speaking with a trusted friend
• seeing a counsellor
• allowing yourself to feel your emotions without judgment
• choosing quiet days when needed.

You are allowed to heal at your own pace.

9. Create a “recharge plan” for the school holidays

School holidays can be intense, especially for single parents or blended families. A simple plan can help keep the pressure down. Ideas include:

• a list of free or low-cost activities
• set “quiet days” at home
• shared care arrangements planned early
• simple summer routines (water play, movie nights, early dinners).

Structure reduces stress, for children and adults alike.

Rest is not a luxury. It’s essential, especially during seasons of stress, transition, or emotional heaviness. By choosing small daily moments of rest, protecting your boundaries, and prioritising connection over perfection, you can enter the holidays feeling more grounded and supported.

If you need guidance on co-parenting, holiday arrangements, or navigating emotional challenges after separation, the team at Parker Coles Curtisis here to help with calm, clear support.