Holiday Stress: 6 Tips to Help You Relax

The holidays bring the fun -- and the pressure -- of parties, family gatherings, and gift-giving. Sometimes, it comes to the point that you may do too much and worry about meeting everyday responsibilities and seasonal expectations. This can lead to headaches, aching shoulders, stiff neck, back pain, sore arms and feet, loss of sleep ... and, in many cases, mild to severe depression. We've come to analogize the holidays with anxiety and dread, succumbing to thinking that you are not (and will never be) ready for the demands associated with the holiday season. It is time to step back, take a deep breath, and let go of these pressures. Bring back the true meaning of the season ... celebrating family and friends!

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 Here are some ways to alleviate seasonal stress:

1.  Avoid carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder only, which can lead to spasms in your shoulder and neck, and throw off your posture, often resulting in back problems. If you have a lot of shopping to do, make it a point to start early. Make a list and organize the items in a way that would allow you to break them into categories which can be done at different times (rather than all in one trip).

2.  Stop thinking "ship 'til you drop"! Make a manageable list and stick to it. When you're done, go home, put your feet up, rest, and relax.

3.  Set boundaries. Remember, you can't do it all. Plan to only do the holiday activities you really enjoy. Even if it's a creative task, like making cards or baking cookies ... if it feels like a burden, try to let it go.

4.  Remember to make time for exercise. If it seems like too much to get to the gym or walk your usual circuit, meet a friend in a festive shopping area and walk an extra few blocks while you window shop. Or take the family or neighbor out on foot to see the holiday displays. Moving vigorously for at least 20 minutes can reduce tension and even help you sleep better.

5.  If you have children or grandchildren, remember the simplest things can sometimes mean the most to them and to the child in you. Read a favorite holiday story or join them in singing their favorite songs. For a little while, forget the plans and presents, and experience the precious moments.

6.  Take an afternoon or evening to enjoy "being" rather than "doing". Immerse yourself in a favorite activity for a few hours, whether that's reading in front of the fireplace, strolling in the woods or through a museum, or getting a massage, facial or pedicure.

Remember, celebrate the holidays by making time for family, friends, and YOU. If you enjoy shopping during this time, do so with that same intent ... the enjoyment (not the expectation) of gift giving.