The Best Way to Reduce Holiday Stress

I woke well before the alarm this morning, full of holiday joy and terror. The joy was over the impending break, the contagious excitement of the students, and an early morning viewing of Elf (how can Buddy the Elf not cheer you up?). The terror...well I don't have to tell any of you where stress comes from during the holidays.

I think the very best way to combat this stress is to REMEMBER TO BREATHE!

But if that isn't enough for you, here are the top ten relaxation tips for reducing holiday stress from the kind people over at selfguided.com:

1. Create realistic expectations -- don't try to make this the perfect holiday.
2. Learn to say "no" to extra obligations that might stress you out.
3. Take short relaxation breaks to let go of tension.
4. Get involved in a volunteer activity where you help others.
5. Tap into your natural creativity and create a hand-made gift.
6. Eat and drink sensibly, and get plenty of exercise and sleep.
7. Practice being a peacemaker if family squabbles erupt.
8. Balance your spending of time and money to improve your quality of life.
9. Create a new holiday tradition that builds connections among your family and friends.
10. Reflect on the deeper meaning and spirit of the holidays for you personally, for your family, and for humanity and the world.

If you are doing some last minute online shopping and would like to browse some more tips, Suite 101 has 65 ways to reduce holiday stress.

I look forward to seeing you at Christmas Together tomorrow and I wish you all a happy, healthy, and stress-free break!