Options in Mind

 What with the credit crunch biting and curtailing some of our pleasures, here are some tips, inspired by the carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas”, on ways to enjoy the run up to Christmas (and beyond for that matter) without spending a fortune, indeed, without spending anything at all for some of them!

On the first day of Christmas my true love sent to me a partridge in a pear tree – well, the pears will be nice next summer and the partridge could be tasty, but why not make sure you give and receive one big hug every day?  More enjoyable!

On the second day of Christmas my true love sent 2 turtle doves – symbols of peace and love, so as you write those Christmas cards take 2 minutes to write a little note to those special friends who are going through difficult times or who have drifted away for the moment.  You will find you benefit from the thought you have taken too.

On the third day of Christmas he sent 3 french hens – no time or money to pop across the channel? Settle yourself down into a comfy chair, relax and spend 3 minutes with a delicious warm drink and perhaps a croissant, remembering a lovely day on your last holiday, notice how much better you feel afterwards.

On the fourth day of Christmas there were 4 calling birds, so time for a get together with 3 friends for a good natter, share lunch or go and see a film?  Get on that phone!

On the fifth day of Christmas five gold rings turned up!  Credit crunch and recession version – relax and recall 5 beautiful occasions with people who are special to you, spend at least 5 minutes on each memory, share them with the people who were there if you can.