11 Tips to Survive Holiday Stress

We learn our biggest lessons from family (by birth or by choice), and the Holidays mean that families and friends get-together to celebrate this festive occasion.

Remember, you are probably not the only one who has problems with the obnoxious relative/friend. However, if someone says something that really upsets you (a put down, a rude remark or behavior) that is the time to practice conscious living principles. Take the “high road.” You attract what you put your attention on. You are in control of your choices — thoughts, words, actions, and behaviors. Don’t be dragged into negativity by one who survives on negative energy. Set your intention for peace, enjoyment, etc., at the start of your morning on that day. You can even start the day before if you find it may be unusually difficult for you.

• Stay calm and do your best to be kind. Don’t just go off with a nasty reply, be the bigger person and remove yourself from the situation. The sharp reply will likely start an argument. Just excuse yourself and leave the room. Count to ten, take some deep, calming, relaxation breaths and come back when you’re more in control. You can let it go and switch the conversation to another topic and practice your listening skills. It’s not worth the argument to give your valuable energy away. The person doesn’t deserve your goodness. We may forget what someone says but we will never forget how that person makes us feel.

• Don’t over indulge in alcoholic beverages. It will loosen your tongue making you say things you may regret later and it can heighten your feeling of being stressed.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Eat balanced meals.

• Don’t over indulge in the sweets. It helps keeps your body happy and healthy. Acidity / Alkalinity. Too much sugar throws your body out of balance and makes it harder to stay healthy and keep your peaceful mindset.

• Taking good vitamin supplements helps your immune system to stay on high alert, keeping colds and flus away.

• Get plenty of sleep. Many people become cranky without the 7-8 hours of required sleep.

• Maintain your exercise routine. Endorphins’ help keep our mood lifted up, problems at bay and chases the stress away.

• Manage your time. Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare the things you want to get done. Allotting time allows you to stay calm and relaxed.

• Allow people to help you. If someone wants to bring a dish, set the table, help clean up, whatever, let them.

• It may be time for the changing of the guard. Allow your children to prepare the meal and have the gathering at their house.

Breathe to Relax and Clear Your Mind

Visualize a calm and soothing environment you love. As you breathe, make sure to take deep breaths, exhaling gently and fully. I recommend that you inhale only through the nose for five to eight counts, hold the breath for a pause and finally exhale out of your mouth for five to eight counts. Repeat the cycle three times. Do this at the first sign of stress. This will relax the mind and body to make your life more stress-free, creating the poise needed to continue in your happy holiday spirit.