How Can I Cut Down on Stress During the Holiday Season?

Ask-the-Experts-Dans-Wellness-Newsletter-November-2015Q:  The holidays are coming, and I’m already feeling stressed.  What can I do to make the season a more relaxed one?

A:  Try to prevent undue stress in the first place, especially if the holidays have taken an emotional toll on you in the past.  Be realistic.  The holidays don’t have to be perfect.  As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well.  Choose a few to hold on to, and be open to creating new ones.  Set aside differences.  Try to accept family members and friends as they are, even if they don’t live up to all your holiday expectations.  Stick to a budget.  Before you go gift and food shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend.  Don’t try to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts.  Try these alternatives:  Donate to a charity in someone’s name, give homemade gifts or start a family gift exchange.

–Source:  Mayo Clinic