Holiday Stressbusters

For children, the holidays are a time of great expectation and excitement, but for adults they can often evolve into a feeling of disappointment. It's no wonder. Adults are not only the keepers of the holiday customs, but also typically the doers of the work. Buying gifts, cooking, shopping, wrapping... suddenly a joyful occasion becomes a series of chores. The result: stress overload. Although some stress, particularly around the holidays, is normal, constant unrelieved stress can eventually damage both physical and emotional health. Keep the following in mind to control holiday stress and make your holiday more enjoyable:

• Don't forget to exercise. Even if it's just a quick walk around the block, exercise can reduce stress as well as give your energy level a boost.

• Be sure to get enough sleep so you feel rested and can function properly. Try to get to bed early if you constantly feel irritable and tired.

• Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, since both of these substances tend to disrupt your sleep. And remember, caffeine is found in chocolate and many sodas.

• Keep the kids involved. Children are naturally drawn to participating in family customs and traditions, and you can learn from them. By including children in all parts of the celebration, you help them to feel important and appreciated.

• Get silly. Holiday customs and traditions should have a sense of play about them, so take a moment to relax and enjoy them.

• Get serious. Traditions can also honor the sacred and elevate ordinary events to a higher level. Be sure to pause and take time for reflection throughout the season.