by Sam O'Quinn

Created on: October 18, 2008   Last Updated: October 28, 2008

The holidays are always a stressful time of year. It seems as though everyone is rushing trying to get things done from Thanksgiving dinner to wrapping presents for Christmas morning. It also seems that the constant holiday stress, in addition to normal everyday stress, can make you irritable when this is a time for happiness.

Unless you want to become invisible and pretend the holidays don't exist, you need simple ways to reduce your stress and handle your anxiety. One simple way to do that is to make a list. If you are having Thanksgiving dinner at your house for your whole family, and this stresses you, make a list of everything you are going to need. A similar list is great for Christmas, as well. A little mind trick for yourself is to include a couple of items on the list that you already have and check them off. This makes you feel as though you have already accomplished something and it keeps you motivated to finish the list.

Another huge stress reducer is to plan ahead. Pick up a few items each week for Thanksgiving and Christmas, instead of waiting until the last minute. You will also ensure items will be in stock and available to you. Figure out sleeping arrangements for your guests coming from out of town. Start your Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners a day or two in advance to minimize your stress on the big day.

Instead of doing it all yourself, involve the whole family. Your husband can clean the bathroom and vacuum, and your kids can clean their rooms. Assign tasks to some family members as they come in. Have someone put away the coats, have someone bring a favorite dish, or put someone in charge of serving the drinks.

Perhaps an overlooked way to reduce stress is to give your time to someone else. Shop for toys for the needy, give food or time to your local food bank, help out an elderly neighbor, lend a hand to a friend who is more stressed out than you. Perhaps treat her and yourself to a movie as an early Christmas gift or a day at the spa to prepare yourselves for a few days with your relatives. You will be amazed at how great it feels to help someone else. It will take your mind off of all the crazy things happening in your life and you will be helping someone deal with theirs.

Other quick ways to reduce holiday stress, and other stress as well, is to sit quietly and control your breathing. Picture the stress flowing out of your body down your arms and legs as you focus on inhaling and exhaling deeply. Take time for yourself, even it's only five minutes. Use that time to focus on yourself while taking a shower or a hot bath. This removes you from the stress and is an instant stress eraser.

Remember, the holidays are supposed to be about family and giving thanks for what we have. Everything doesn't have to be perfect for you and your family to enjoy your time together. This holiday season, slow down, give thanks, and enjoy the people for whom you are trying to make everything perfect.

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