Roxanne’s Four Favorite Ways To Relieve Stress During the Holidays

Please read my headline carefully. It says reLIEVE stress not reLIVE stress. Because who hasn't had stressful moments during the holidays that are then so steeped into your neuropathic programming.

Not to be too depressing, but let's see...we've lost loved ones during the holiday seasons, we've had family conflict on occasion over the years at some of the gatherings...let's go way back. My parents got separated the week of Christmas. I'm guessing I'm not alone when I say that as much as I look forward to the holidays, there are also memories that evoke sadness attached to this most wonderful time of the year. So again, I don't want to RELIVE these stressful moments. I want an escape from and RELIEF from any kind of holiday stress.

Here are some tactics I've found that help me do that.

The holidays are such a BUSY time of year. It's easy to get run-down. You will enjoy yourself so much more if you are taking good care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. How do you do it? Don't burn the candle at both ends. Try to get enough sleep (I know that's easier said than done at times). Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein in your day-to-day and around your house, and then when you go to a holiday party, you don't feel badly about indulging. Go treat yourself to a massage or facial or something that makes you feel good, gives you a little lift. For more ideas on practicing good self-care during the holidays, click here.

If you are feeling overwhelmed with presents to buy and things to do, slow down, prioritize and realize that most of that pressure is probably self-inflicted. Take half the items off your to-do list and take the time to enjoy what you are doing rather than rushing through every get-together or social moment. See the holidays through the eyes of a child who is experiencing it all for the first time or through the eyes of an older person who is appreciating every moment.

Making other people smile with generosity is really what the season is all about. The holidays really can depress people, as I mentioned earlier...if they bring up bad memories. Or maybe someone is feeling lonely. It's hard to feel down in the dumps when you are putting your efforts towards helping someone else. Say thank you and lend a helping hand. Find a place to volunteer or donate if you are so inclined.

You've got TWO important commodities you want to budget for: money AND time. Lay out your plan for who and what you can devote your resources to and try to stick to it. An at least having the plan, will make things seem less chaotic.