SPAS TO FIGHT FESTIVE FATIGUE

In just a few short weeks, families in Singapore who decked the halls with Christmas finery had to swop faux fir trees for auspicious Chinese New Year kumquat potted s trees.

- Chantal Sajan Senior Correspondent

The back-to-back preparations for two big festivals - first on Dec 25, then Chinese New Year on Jan 29 and 30 can be intense.

While celebrations are high points, they can also be overwhelming if one does not practise self-care.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), self-care is when people take responsibility for their own well-being by adopting a lifestyle that promotes overall health of mind and body.

The global health agency released new guidelines in July 2024 to help countries integrate selfcare within healthcare frameworks.

"Self-care is an essential aspect of overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked in our fast-paced lives," adds WHO.

Spa visits are one way to initiate self-care, say experts. Treatments available in Singapore span a huge spectrum, from Western-style deep-tissue massage to Japanese onsen baths to Peranakan-inspired therapies.

Dr Geraldine Tan, director and principal psychologist at The Therapy Room in Orchard Road, says celebrations are hotly anticipated events, but they can overstimulate the brain.

"Think of the mad rush to shop and redecorate the home," says the 46-year-old, who co-hosts Therapy Tuesdays, a weekly radio segment on SPH Radio Kiss92. It features tips on maintaining good mental health.

"People can feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of work involved, on top of their day jobs."

Dr Tan says that when one feels overwhelmed during festive seasons, it is necessary to quickly take time out to avoid being completely exhausted or having a meltdown.

Tell-tale signs of stress are mood swings, irritability and a feeling of wanting to withdraw from others.

Spa therapies can help individuals focus on their bodies and relax specific body parts, says Dr Tan.

Closing one's eyes starts a change in pace which is important for detaching from the source of stress and overstimulation.