Christmas can be a stressful and busy time. Here are some tips on how to be kind to yourself, others and the planet this Christmas.

We are often our own harshest critic. Practise some self love my repeating some affirmations each day. Here are some you can download and print. There is also a blank set so you can write your own.

According to a recent study, reading for six minutes a day can reduce a person's stress level by 68 percent. You have to read silently for six minutes straight for this to work. Researchers from the Mindlab at the University of Sussex found that reading was more effective at reducing stress than listening to music, having a cup of tea or going for a walk. Researcher and cognitive neuropsychologist Dr David Lewis said, “Losing yourself in a book is the ultimate relaxation." Read more here.

When you're stressed you need to make some time to be kind to yourself - even if you're busy. One of my favourite ways of looking after myself when I'm feeling a bit stressed is to run a hot bath, light a scented candle or turn on my vaporiser, put on some tunes and read a magazine. The restorative power of water is amazing.