Overwhelm can come in many different forms at this time of year. We can feel overwhelmed about the money we are being pressurised to spend, about the responsibilities we are facing, about the time and energy we need to find to cope with the additional demands, and with loneliness or grief at being separated from our loved ones for whatever reasons.

We can also feel overwhelmed at the thought of spending time in the company of relatives with whom we have difficult or challenging relationships.

We might find ourselves feeling as though we have been stretched so thin that we might snap at any minute, while at the same time neglecting those self-care activities that might help us to feel more resilient.

So what can we do in the next couple of weeks to help ourselves, manage this overwhelm, tackle any stress and anxiety, and face the Christmas period in a mentally resilient state? Hypnosis and EFT/tapping are very useful techniques to learn that can provide a considerable help at this time of the year. These self-help tools are easy to learn and can provide much needed relief. Looking after yourself means that you have the energy and mental flexibility to look after everyone else!

How to use EFT/tapping:

• Identify the Overwhelming Emotion: Pinpoint the specific      emotion or feeling that is overwhelming you. Is it stress, anxiety,      frustration, or something else? This clarity is essential for effective      tapping.
• Rate the Intensity: Before you start tapping, rate the intensity of the overwhelming emotion on a scale from 0 to 10. This helps you track your progress as you tap.
• Setup Statement: Begin with a setup statement that    acknowledges the issue and includes self-acceptance. For example,      “Even though I feel overwhelmed, I deeply and completely accept      myself.”
• Tap on Key Points: Utilise the EFT tapping points while      repeating short phrases that address the overwhelming emotion. These points include the top of the head, eyebrow, side of the eye, under the eye, under the nose, chin, collarbone, and under the arm.
• Be Specific: Focus on specific aspects of the overwhelm. Break down the broader issue into smaller components and tap on each one individually.
• Practise every day: Find a time at the end of the day when you have two spare minutes and tap through everything that has bothered you during that day so that you can clear out and process any negative emotions.

How to use self-hypnosis:

• Use relaxation techniques: Start with deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation to ease into a more relaxed state. This helps to creat the mindset that is ready to accept hypnotic suggestions.
• Create a positive script: Develop your own suggestions that      emphasise positive affirmations and coping mechanisms. Focus on calming phrases and reinforcing your ability to handle challenges.
• Visualize a safe place: Guide yourself into imagining a peaceful      and safe place. This mental retreat can serve as a sanctuary when      overwhelmed, allowing you to regain composure.
• Repeat affirmations: Incorporate positive affirmations related to managing stress and overwhelm. Repeating these statements      during hypnosis can help reshape your thought patterns. You can then use these affirmations in those real-life times of heightened overwhelm to restore calm. 
• Practice self-hypnosis regularly: Consistency is key. Regular practice enhances the effectiveness of self-hypnosis over time,      making it a valuable skill in managing overwhelm.
• Combine with other stress-reducing activities: Integrate hypnosis into your overall stress management routine. Whether it’s exercise, meditation, or mindfulness, combining these practices can      amplify their benefits.