Tired and overstimulated
The month of December exhausts many people: of the Dutch who feel more tired than normal, nearly two out of three say that the dark, shorter days weigh heavily on them. Social obligations and general holiday pressure also play a significant role. Many Dutch people become overstimulated due to the accumulation of activities and the loss of a regular rhythm, partly due to different eating and drinking habits. A quarter feels the tension increase due to year-end pressure at work or study, while one in five worries about health or weight. Together, these factors make December a month in which energy runs out faster than they would like.
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Dreading the holidays
The Dutch who indicate they dread the holidays point to various causes. Nearly 2 out of 3 in this group cite (family) obligations as a reason. Overstimulation from too many activities (48%) and social pressure to participate in activities (41%) also play an important role. For a quarter of the Dutch who dread the holidays, financial worries, loneliness, and difficult memories are also factors.
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Focus on what really matters
Nevertheless, nearly half of the Dutch indicate that the coziness helps them cope better with the December rush. By adjusting expectations and choosing activities that provide energy, December can become a month of connection and relaxation. Angelique Holtman, proposition manager Care at cooperative Univér: 'At Univér, we find it important that members take good care of themselves. As a cooperative, Univér is happy to assist its members in this. For example, with fun exercise activities in the area. Those who consciously take time for relaxation and incorporate moments of rest maintain resilience and well-being - and can therefore also mean more for others.'
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