Christmas is an overwhelming time during the holidays when we get caught up in the glitz and hustle and bustle of
finding presents, writing cards, hosting parties, listening to radio and television
advertising, making food and baking--and so many other activities that we
become over-stimulated, cranky, and sometimes downright depressed. We think we
have to get everything just right. Just perfect.
My mother used to remind me when I slipped into my crazy Christmas
mode, that Christmas is only one day. It will come and it will go--in just
twenty-four hours, she would admonish.
Here are some quick tips to reduce the Christmas stress:
PLAN AHEAD – Plan ahead, whether it’s starting
the Christmas cards early in November or making a list of things that are
priorities such as travel plans, possible presents, or your food lists for
menus for the season. It always helps to start early and avoid rushing later.
BUY ONLINE – There’s no need to
elbow you way through crowded stores when many of the online specials already
beat the Christmas prices advertised in the flyers and on the radio and
television. Shop online and have everything delivered to your door.
TAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF – Take time
to breathe, take time to exercise, take time to do something you like. Grab a
cup of hot chocolate or decaffeinated coffee and your favorite book and cozy chair
for a few minutes. Psychologists say we need 20 minutes of “me time” or “personal
down-time” each day. Take it and don’t feel guilty.
ENJOY THE SEASON – If Christmas
music makes you feel joyful, turn up the knob on your radio or CD player. Take
a quiet, solitary walk and get away from it all, if you must. Watch the snow fall silently and peacefully, covering the world in white. Smell the homey scents of the season: pine, citrus, cinnamon and vanilla. Listen to the sounds of bells
or children laughing. Enjoy the very sights that remind us of Christmas such as
a wreath on someone’s door or a lighted Christmas tree.
And in the end,
remember—“It’s really only one day. It will come and it will go--in just
twenty-four hours!”
Merry Christmas
to all!