The Christmas break is fast approaching us and we are aware that for many this year is going to be very different.

With that in mind, we've pulled some tips and activities to beat boredom and keep yourself physically and mentally healthy during the holidays.

Make sure to join our ECSAmas Party for some festive fun, on Thursday 17th December, 4pm - 6pm.

Whether you're spending Christmas on your own, or with others, we wish you a merry Christmas. 

The ECSA Team will be taking a well-earned break from Friday the 18th of December and re-opening on Wednesday the 6th of January, so please be aware that ECSA e-mails, phones, etc. will not be answered during this period.

Please remember that although ECSA and Edinburgh College will be completely closed for the Christmas break, there are lots of organisations and charities that can help you. You can find the full list by clicking the button below. 

Find a Support Organisation

 

Boredom Busters

  • Have a wardrobe clear out - you could donate any items you don't want to our swap shop
  • Decorate your home with some home-made sustainable Christmas decorations
  • Practice cooking and baking some festive treats
  • Learn something new
  • Go for a winter walk, remember to wrap up warm
  • Head out to look at a local light display
  • Try out some fun Christmas activities and crafts
  • Snowball fight


Mental Health & Wellbeing

  • Notice how you're feeling, including any anxious thoughts
  • Use grounding techniques
  • Limit the time you and your family spend watching or listening to upsetting media coverage
  • Try to stick to your normal daily schedule
  • Meditate, even if it's just for a couple of minutes
  • Set yourself small, manageable tasks, such as making the bed or washing the dishes after you eat
  • Call, message or facetime friends and family to keep in contact
  • Do activities that you enjoy (or try some new ones!) eg. reading, jigsaws, knitting, etc.
  • Have a Netflix Party with your friends (all watch at the same time from separate houses)

For more wellbeing information and advice, check out our  Wellbeing support page and Edinburgh College's Wellbeing Hub.

Merry Christmas and stay safe!