As soon as summer is over starts the countdown to Christmas. But first we remember the clocks are changing, Halloween, bonfire night, plus many other festivities that include fireworks. I’m not a big fan of fireworks as one of my dogs is terrified of them- he has only got over the fear of walking in the dark. I’m not about to preach about people celebrating with fireworks as others have done so on social media. Me and my pooch manage it by creating a little den for him to escape to. If anyone has any tips I would be grateful.
Anyways I jabber on as always. Now we’re officially on the countdown to Christmas because its cold and the gloves are on. Who’s going where on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day etc. and who’s not coming, something I’ve had to deal with in my family. Honestly I love the mulled wine, cosy nights in, movies – The Holiday and The Family Stone on repeat but the organisation of it all has my head going round and round in circles. I tried to start off the month correctly, Christmas tree and decorations done (although in a studio flat doesn’t take long), a few Christmas presents done and couple on the list that I know I need to buy. Who else is at the point where they just want to know what the person wants? None of this surprise me, please just tell me either what you need or want so I don’t end up buying cosy socks for you. But then it’s planning in all the family get-togethers before Christmas and ensuring there is equal time between my family and my partner’s family. As some of this is a week before Christmas I need to be even more organised and get their presents asap. Unfortunately these are the presents I have no idea what should be yet. Even though getting to the get-togethers involves a lot of driving it does mean I have a week off before Christmas to hopefully unwind and breathe in nature and the countryside. City girl at heart but I do love a reason to wear my wellies.
In addition I have kicked off the fundraising for my charity place- Action Against Hunger UK for London Marathon 2020 with a couple fundraisers this month, one is a Ecuadorian festive meal with my family and the 2nd is my own handmade knitted headbands with every £10 donation on my everyday hero fundraising page. Alongside training for the marathon at least 5 times a week (home workouts, run clubs, run commutes) whilst trying not to get injured, house hunting (I haven’t stepped into the one just yet), and finishing off CPD (continuous professional development) training courses for my job, it all seems to be getting on top of me.
That was a load I needed to get off my chest.
I do need to remember I have a lot to be grateful for. I am extremely grateful for having a partner who puts up with my moods when I’m trying to manage all of the above. My parents who are kindly helping me put on the charity fundraiser this month and my family who are kindly participating. Progressing in my career and being able to be in the position to look forward to owning a house one day.
5 things I do to keep myself focused:
1. Carry yummy snacks – during these times of stress we can tend to go for high sugar snacks. In my office that can be biscuits which often make me feel sluggish. To give me a boost I make sure I have plenty of fruit on hand such as a Tupperware of frozen mangoes and raspberries (pack them in the morning, by lunchtime they’re perfect to have with some plain yoghurt)
2. Plenty of water – at least 2 litres of water a day and ensure I’m well hydrated before I workout or go for a run
3. Have my favourite podcasts and audiobooks lined up. At the moment it is Shagged Married Annoyed by Chris and Rose Ramsey, Well Far by Amy Lane, Made of Human by Sofie Hagen, Power Hour by Adrienne Herbert, Happy Place by Fearne Cotton. Audio book currently is Harry Potter and the Philosopher Stone read by Stephen Fry – AMAZING!
4. Take a walk – whenever suits you. If you know you’re going to be sitting for the majority of the day, walk a bit extra in the morning and then again at lunchtime if you can. If you can’t before work, try after work. For me, once I get home by pooches are ready for me to take them out. Extra tip – make sure dogs are wearing light up collars when walking them in the dark.
5. Yoga or stretching. Doesn’t have to be an hour. I do mine at home for about 25 minutes either self-led or using Fiit app. In the morning or evening, whenever I have the time. It is essential when training for a marathon but in general I even recommend it for my patients. Start with 10 minutes whilst watching TV if you want, your body will thank you.
I think we’re also heading to that time of year where people are thinking of setting new goals or challenges ready for the new year. Why wait? New goals or challenges don’t have to be massive, you can start small now. I am currently training for London Marathon 2020 and even though I have run long distances this year and run PB’s at the moment I feel like I am starting from scratch. It’s bugging me as I remember when I ran faster and further but I can’t beat myself up over it. I’m starting small and progressing at my own pace. Don’t compare your journey with anyone else’s.
Happy Hump Day
Eat For You Dietitian 
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