RING THE changes

Change is never easy, and there’s something about Christmas that makes coping with life’s big transitions even harder. Partly, it’s because tradition dominates so much of what we do at this time. Even families that aren’t sticklers for tradition have lots of little things they do ‘just so’ at this time of year.

From what you eat and when you unwrap the presents, to who does the cooking and whether the Queen’s message features in the proceedings, most families follow patterns and protocol at Christmas, often passed down from one generation to another. Yet holding on to tradition, especially when family dynamics change, can sometimes lead to more stress. And stress is the one thing no-one needs more of at this time of year.

Embrace the changes

There are lots of reasons why you might consider doing things differently this year. Relationship break-ups and bereavements can force