Zen for the Holidays

by Cheng-Ling Chen — November 27, 2007

Christmas carols are playing nonstop on the radio. Overnight, it seems, decorations have been put up everywhere. How can it be the end of the year already? And is it really necessary to start the holiday spirit even before December 1st? Bah-humbug! You feel the holiday stress creeping in. Check out some helpful tips from MayoClinic.com to minimize tension over the next few weeks.

• Spill it. If you find yourself agitated or grumpy, instead of putting on a party face, express how you feel. 'Tis the season to be jolly doesn't mean you have to bottle your frustrations. Get them out of your system so you can move on.
• Spread the joy. If your To-Do List is more than you can handle, enlist help from others. Get family and friends to contribute with the cooking, shopping, cleanup, or errands. You don't have to do everything by yourself. Remember, part of the holiday joy is sharing it.
• Get real. Examine your expectations, whether they have to do with holiday preparations or relationships. Hold on to what you can but know when to let go. If everything must be perfect, there's always January 1 st and all of next year.
• Budget. Before you head out to the maelstrom of holiday shopping, come up with a plan of attack. Decide how much money you will spend on gifts. Allow a little extra for those gifts you'll inevitably find for yourself along the way. When you get out there, stick to the budget.
• Game Plan. Brew some herbal tea or pour a glass of red wine. While you enjoy, think through everything you need to get done between now and then. Make a schedule. Set aside time for shopping, cooking, visiting friends, office parties, and other activities. Look at your schedule, and feel good about being in control of it, rather than the other way around.
• Work it! Don't abandon your workout routine. Continue working up a sweat. Exercise will help you fight stress and allow you to feel good about yourself.
• Time out. Take some quality "me" time. Even if only for a few minutes each day or some time during the week. Take a bath, hide out at a tea house, go for a walk, or schedule a massage. Treat yourself. Clear your mind and restore your inner balance.