As the holidays are upon us many folks begin to feel frazzled, pressured and decidedly stressed about meeting all the obligations that this season can bring.\u00a0 Rubbish I say!\u00a0 Now is the time to commit to a safe, sane and spiritually centered holiday season.\u00a0 Here are a few tips I’ve found helpful over the years to minimize stress and remember what the holidays are truly intended for:<\/p>\n
Minimize your Holiday Schedule<\/strong> – This year I am not flying all over trying to see everyone on or before the holiday.\u00a0 I’ve realized that relaxed time with family on Dec 26th can be just as special as the day itself.\u00a0 This also keeps me from feeling stressed on a day I want to feel happy & grateful.\u00a0 Create a holiday schedule that minimizes your time in the car, train or airplane.<\/p>\n Make it about Time not Money<\/strong> – Many people feel financial pressure at the holidays which is augmented by our culture’s focus on gift giving and shopping.\u00a0 Why don’t you bake some cookies instead of going to the mall.\u00a0 Make it a holiday tradition and get the kids involved wrapping them up for people with nice notes.\u00a0 I can assure you that a thoughtful, homemade gift will be more important to people than anything you could find elsewhere.\u00a0 You can also make cute hand made gift certificates for a lunch or dinner after the holidays.\u00a0 People remember the connection you have with them more than what you purchase.<\/p>\n Saying No is OK<\/strong> – At some point in the holiday a co-worker or relative will ask you to do something you do not really want to do.\u00a0 Give yourself permission to say, “No.”\u00a0 Say it with grace and compassion but stick to your guns about your schedule, your time and your budget.<\/p>\n Focus on the Inside<\/strong> – At this time of being with family it is important to focus on what matters most in family – our connection, support and love for one another.\u00a0 Use this family time as an opportunity to exercise the muscle of forgiveness.\u00a0 Bury the hatchet and allow yourself to be in the present with your family rather than being stuck in old emotions and past hurts.\u00a0 By focusing on today you will give yourself the best gift of all – emotional freedom and serenity.\u00a0 If others in your family try to drag you back into the old arguments just smile and walk away.<\/p>\n Remember the Children<\/strong> – The holidays can be a wonderful time to engage with the children in your life whether you are a parent, aunt, grandparent or family friend.\u00a0 Make an effort to make holiday memories with them.\u00a0 Take them to visit one of\u00a0 the many holiday light displays, visit Santa or invite them over to help you decorate.\u00a0 These family memories and traditions bring warmth to their life and especially yours.\u00a0 You will both have something to treasure from the holidays if you make this effort.<\/p>\n Lastly, remember the holidays are your time.\u00a0 Take charge, make good choices and make it a time to remember from the inside out!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" As the holidays are upon us many folks begin to feel frazzled, pressured and decidedly stressed about meeting all the obligations that this season can bring.\u00a0 Rubbish I say!\u00a0 Now is the time to commit to a safe, sane and spiritually centered holiday season.\u00a0 Here are a few tips I’ve found helpful over the years<\/p>\n