by Kenda Robertson

Created on: November 05, 2010   Last Updated: November 11, 2010

You know the drill. Thanksgiving is over and then it’s time to make your gift list and dive head first into holiday shopping! At the top of the list this year: Finding time to relax.

Holiday gift-giving, party-going and party-hosting can be a lot of fun, but they can also be time-consuming and stressful, even if you love this time of year. Everyone wants to cook the juiciest turkey, put up a festive Christmas tree, and find all the right gifts for everyone, as well as be the tireless host. But the pressure to have a “perfect” holiday, like we see portrayed in Hallmark movies, isn’t practical or realistic. Financial pressures, being away from loved ones, relatives staying over, and other factors can also result in anxiety and fatigue.

To keep up with the hectic holiday activities, yet still have fun, you must take care of yourself first. If you are not having a good time, then chances are no one else will. Here is how:

Be realistic.

Holidays should be enjoyed, not dreaded. Nonstop shopping or stressing about the details can consume your time and your money. If you can’t do it all by yourself, ask for help or cut back on the festivities. Do only what you can do and still be satisfied. Two parties in one weekend may be too much. Choose the one that you want to attend most and send regrets to the other. Buying gifts for everyone is expensive and challenging. Start the new holiday tradition of less is always more.

Call a time out.

When it all gets to be too much (or before that happens) take some time to regenerate. Meditation and yoga are ideal techniques for lowering blood pressure and increasing the endorphins. Take the time to pamper yourself with a facial or massage.

Do something for others.

Take a friend to lunch, or a relative to tea. Volunteer at a soup kitchen or charity thrift store. It will help you realize how good your life really is. Enjoy it.

Eat for energy.

Snacking on sugary treats is common during the holidays, but sweets can zap your energy and make you tired and cranky. While you don’t want to miss out on special treats like pumpkin pie, be sure to eat your fruits and vegetables, and get plenty of healthy proteins too.

Stress-less supplements.

A cup of chamomile can do wonders for the senses—and the stress. Take time to unwind with essential oils, like lavender. Add nutritional supplements when needed. Magnesium is a great stress buster. Omega-3s in fish oil can help soothe your mood. Other herb and homeopathic supplements, such as Natural Balance's Happy Camper, can be short-term mood lifters.

Stay healthy this holiday season by finding time to relax. The better you feel, the happier your holidays will be.

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