When the Holidays Feel Heavy: A Real Chat on Mental Health and Finding Calm with Nigel

Does December feel like it takes more out of you than usual?

In this week’s episode of The GA Wellness Podcast, presented by GA Wellness with Georgia Ann™, we talk with Nigel from Amplified Health NZ about the emotional load, family pressures and expectations that build during December. We explore why this time of year can feel heavy for so many women and how simple actions can help you slow down, breathe and protect your energy.

You’ll learn practical ways to support your nervous system, stay connected to what matters and look after yourself as you move through the holiday season.

📋 What we covered:

• Nigel’s background, his journey through burnout, lifestyle changes and how Amplified Health NZ was created.
• Why December feels so emotionally full and how expectations, family dynamics, social pressure and grief can make the holiday season difficult.
• Nigel’s practical ways to bring the focus back to the simple things like barbecues, baking, campfires and everyday connection.
• How movement supports your mental health and why your habits do not need to change just because it is Christmas or the holiday season.
• Why small acts of kindness, community and connection matter when loneliness peaks in December.
• Nigel’s advice for protecting your mental health: do what makes you smile, take big breaths, spend time in nature and practise gratitude for the small things.

🌟 Key takeaways:

• Slowing down helps you notice what matters.
• Small actions support your nervous system.
• You do not need to change your habits because it is December.
• Connection, kindness and simple moments can shift someone's day too.

🧰 Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Free Journal Prompt & Reflection: ✨ Your Weekly Cuppa & Check-In #18 ☕ Holiday Nervous System Reset https://gawellness.myflodesk.com/holidayreset
• Register Your Interest: 🌿 Mobility Matters Playbook https://gawellness.myflodesk.com/mobilitymattersplaybook
• Join Early Access: 💛 C.A.L.M Pathway Founders Circle - Opening Mid November 2025 https://gawellness.myflodesk.com/calmfounderscircle
• Get in Touch with Georgia Ann or suggest a podcast idea: 🌸 Contact Georgia Ann https://gawellness.myflodesk.com/contact
• 1:1 Support Nervous System Reset: Book a curiosity chat https://calendly.com/garharidis/1-1-nervous-system-support-with-georgia
• Subscribe for Podcast Emails: Join the “Cuppa & Check-In” List https://gawellness.myflodesk.com/lbuqngff28
• Follow on Instagram: @gawellness https://www.instagram.com/gawellness/

Nigel’s Links:

• Amplified Health NZ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/amplifiedhealthnz/
• Amplified Health NZ Website https://www.amplifiedhealthnz.com

Mobility Matters Playbook Update:

The Playbook is mentioned in this episode and is currently being refined to be more intentional based on the Mobility Matters in Real Life Instagram series and community feedback.

🔁 Episodes referenced for deeper listening:

• E015 Mobility Matters: Women’s Bodies in Motion Over the Decades
• E016 Mobility Matters: Restorative Movement for Busy Women
• E017 Mobility Matters: Strength for Life

✍️ Cuppa & Check-In

This week’s gentle prompts:

→ Learn: What feels hardest for me during this time of year?

→ Try: Use the Holiday Nervous System Reset once this week and write down what changed.

→ Become: What helped me feel calmer and more supported?

Connect:

• Instagram:  @gawellness https://www.instagram.com/gawellness/
• Facebook Group: The Balanced Bella Community 🌿 Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1465025104488400/
• Website: Coming soon!

🔔 Follow & Review:

If this episode spoke to you, lovely, please:

• Follow the podcast.
• Leave a quick review (it truly helps!)
• Share with a bestie who’s ready to reclaim wellness on her own terms.

© 2025 GA Wellness with Georgia Ann™.