5 Tips for the Season

By Camylle Katherman

Thanksgiving opens the season of holiday parties, family gatherings, delicious rich desserts, and the spirit of being thankful for our many blessings and giving from our heart.  But there comes a point for each of us when we have to ask: “How many holiday gatherings can I attend without feeling overwhelmed?”  Too much holiday cheer can bring on
common stress reactions including headaches, irritability, overeating, and sleeping trouble.  With some planning many of these feelings can be managed or prevented altogether.

Here are five tips for managing holiday stress:

1. Do your best to avoid holiday crowds.  Shopping centers are busiest in the evening and weekend hours.  If possible take a couple of personal days off work to shop on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning.

2. Gift ideas are flexible.  You might have planned on getting your niece new ear buds but if you are picking up a pair of earrings to wear to your work Christmas party and see a necklace your niece would like then get it for her.

3. Be realistic with your resources. You do not have to attend every party or stay the whole time. You do not have to find the perfect gift for everyone. You do not have to sample every hors d’oeuvre for fear of offending the host. Do as much as you are comfortable with and don‘t apologize for being you.

4. Stick to your limits. If finances are tight, enjoy activities that are free, such as concerts or looking at lights. Saying no to an excessive wish list from your children will not harm them!

5. Take care of yourself. Give yourself simple indulgences such as a hot bath, spend time with friends (low key lunch, no gifts), watch your favorite movie, exercise regularly and get enough sleep. If you are having company, hire a maid service ( or even a responsible neighborhood teenager- they need holiday cash !!!) to clean your house.
Depending on your situation, the expense will be worth the time and energy saved.