Paying it forward doesn’t have to be a big deal.

As we get closer to Christmas, more people are feeling stressed and anxious. The cost of living is rising. Expectations over the holiday Christmas period are always high.

There are some simple ways we can pay it forward, passing on love and kindness to help others:

• Smile
• Offer to pay for someone’s coffee
• Donate clothes and bedding to our local charity
• Ask family and friends if they are okay
• Canned foods and other items in a food hamper
• Offer to help someone who might be house bound – i.e. do they need anything at the shops

We can ensure we have enough energy and motivation by:

• Eat five serves of fruit and vegetables
• Drink 2 litres of water
• Light exercise like walking
• Distract our mind and brain whirl by finding something to focus on

Sometimes distraction is a good way to release stress.

• Put on loud music and dance or sing (or both)
• Listen to a pod cast, or an audio book
• Go somewhere you haven’t been before
• Read a book, colour in, or a new craft activity

If you find it difficult to get time out for these types of activities, schedule some ‘me’ time in your calendar.

Remember to acknowledge everything you have done this year already. All achievements, no matter how small.

Take care and happy Halloween.