12 Ways to Have a Calm, Relaxing Christmas for Tired Working Mums
The holidays often feel like a race to the finish line: endless to-do lists, crowded schedules, and the pressure to make everything magical for everyone else. For tired working mums, this overwhelming hustle can overshadow the joy of the season. But what if we approached it differently? What if we saw December as a chance to slow down, take a deep breath, and celebrate what we’ve achieved this year?
This Christmas, let’s take a cue from the 12 Days of Christmas – not for the chaos, but for its rhythm and simplicity. Here are 12 ways to create a calm, relaxing Christmas, embracing what matters most: connection, presence, and peace.
1. A Simple Yes (and a Graceful No)
One of the hardest challenges for mums is learning to say no without guilt. Whether it’s holiday invitations, school activities, or family events, it’s far too easy to overcommit. This year, protect your time by only saying yes to things that bring you joy or align with your family’s values. For everything else, practice a kind but firm “no.”
For example:
Instead of hosting the entire extended family, suggest meeting at a local pub or having a potluck where everyone brings a dish.
Say no to over-the-top meals or expectations. A simple, heartfelt day at home with your little ones, watching movies and snuggling, can be far more magical.
Setting boundaries will help you focus on what truly matters and reduce stress during this busy season.
2. Two Hours Offline
In today’s hyper-connected world, the temptation to scroll through curated holiday photos or check work emails can pull you away from the moment. Schedule two hours offline each day – whether it’s an evening or a lazy morning over the weekend.
Use this time to:
Read a festive story together with your children.
Play board games or bake something simple as a family.
Enjoy a quiet bath with little ones, making it a fun, “out-of-the-ordinary” event.
Reflect on your day through journaling or quiet time.
Disconnecting digitally will allow you to reconnect emotionally.
3. Three Breaths of Calm
When stress builds – whether it’s wrapping gifts late at night or rushing to a carol concert – pause for three deep, intentional breaths.
Try this simple breathing exercise:
Inhale deeply for four counts.
Hold for four counts.
Exhale slowly for six counts.
This simple habit calms your nervous system, helping you navigate chaotic moments with more patience and presence. Deep breathing is particularly useful during overstimulating situations, like caring for little ones or managing stressful work meetings. Avoiding guilt parenting is also easier when you’re calmer.
4. Four Gifts Rule
The pressure to buy endless presents can be exhausting for working mums. Simplify with the “Four Gifts Rule”: something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read.
This approach:
Reduces overwhelm during shopping.
Teaches your children about mindful giving.
Helps focus on meaningful gifts rather than excess.
5. Five Minutes of Silence
Amid the holiday chaos, carve out five minutes of silence each day. Whether it’s sitting by the Christmas tree with a warm drink or pausing in your car before heading home, this quiet time can be incredibly restorative.
Use this moment to:
Reflect on what you’re grateful for.
Simply enjoy the peace and stillness.
This quiet time can help when you’re feeling the strain of stressed parenting or need to reconnect to yourself.
6. Six Shared Laughs
Laughter is the best medicine for stressed working mums. Plan small, joyful activities to create moments of genuine connection and laughter.
Ideas include:
Watching a classic Christmas comedy (think Elf or Home Alone).
Having a family karaoke night with festive songs.
Playing charades or other silly games together.
Looking through old photos and laughing at past memories.
These shared moments of joy will become cherished memories. They also encourage present parenting, reminding you that your presence means more than perfection.
7. Seven Acts of Support (for Partners)
The magic of Christmas doesn’t have to fall solely on one mum. Partners, take this opportunity to step up and actively support your family.
Ask yourself:
What tasks can I take off her plate completely?
What holiday responsibilities can I manage on my own?
Whether it’s buying gifts, planning an activity, or organizing dinner, taking initiative can help reduce stress and allow for a more relaxed Christmas. Showing up as a present dad and an equal partner can make all the difference. This teamwork doesn’t need to end with the holidays – it can become a long-term habit.
8. Eight Moments of Gratitude
Shift your mindset from stress to appreciation by practicing gratitude. Each day, take a moment to reflect on what you’re thankful for.
Ideas include:
Writing a gratitude list.
Sharing a “gratitude moment” around the dinner table.
Sending a quick “thank you” message to someone who’s made a difference.
Focusing on gratitude will help you appreciate the beauty of the season.
9. Nine Nourishing Meals
Holiday eating can often mean either indulgent feasts or rushed snacks. Plan nine simple, nutritious meals to keep your energy levels up. Think hearty soups, one-pan dishes, or roasted veggies with protein.
Bonus: Get your kids involved in cooking – it’s a great way to spend quality time together.
If you’re struggling with zero me time or feeling tired all the time, these simple meals can help nourish your body and give you energy.
10. Ten Steps Outdoors
Nature is one of the simplest ways to reduce stress. Whether it’s a short walk to see Christmas lights or stepping outside for fresh air, spending time outdoors can help you feel recharged.
Even a few minutes outside can make a huge difference in your mood and energy levels.
11. Eleven Joyful Tunes
Music has the power to set the tone for the season. Create a playlist of your favourite holiday songs – calming or uplifting – and let it play in the background.
Ideas include:
Soft acoustic versions of classic Christmas tunes.
Upbeat songs for a family dance party.
Songs that hold sentimental meaning for you.
Music can also help you reconnect to your children or set a peaceful atmosphere at home.
12. Twelve Days of Grace
Finally, give yourself and others the gift of grace. Let go of perfection and embrace imperfection.
Remember:
It’s okay to order takeout instead of cooking.
It’s okay if everything doesn’t go to plan.
It’s okay to rest when you need to.
By practicing self-compassion, you’ll create space for a more joyful, stress-free holiday. Let go of parenting with guilt and focus on what truly matters.
This Christmas, tired working mums deserve more than a season of demands. By embracing these 12 simple steps, you can create a calm, relaxing Christmas filled with connection, peace, and balance. Remember, the greatest gift you can give your family is your presence, not perfection. So take a deep breath, slow down, and let the magic of Christmas unfold in its own imperfect, beautiful way.