Does your blood pressure rise the mere thought of the holidays approaching? Has this time of year turned into more stress and frazzlement than fun and celebrating traditions? The holidays can be a time of celebration, a time spent with loved ones. It can also be a period of clicking your heels together like Dorothy did, wishing you could open your eyes and it would all be over. There is no denying the fact that this time of year is full and busy. You can however make some simple changes in your life to bring about some balance. Wouldn't it feel great to enjoy this time of year, truly embracing the moment for what it is? This is a time to celebrate all that you are grateful for, a time to share with others in need. You can grasp this opportunity to place a positive handprint on someone else's life. Take a deep breath, let go of insignificant details and enjoy the moment. ACTION TIPS FOR THE WEEK: 1. Prepare, prepare, prepare Planning ahead for what is to come will only alleviate stress later on. What can you prepare for now that you won't have to face later? Do you have holiday shopping? Are you adopting a family for the holidays that you will need to provide gifts for? Will relatives be visiting that you need to plan meals for? Create a master list of what needs to be accomplished by when. Next, begin crossing items off the list as you take care of them. 2.Take a breath You will undoubtedly encounter stressed out people during the holidays. Instead of taking on their energy as your own, take a deep breath and let it go. Make a conscious choice how you will respond to others' negativity. 3. Don't overcommit This time of year, your calendar can easily fill up with party after party. If you truly want to enjoy the holidays, take some time for youself and learn to say no. Realize you aren't obligated to attend every gathering you are invited to. Pick and choose the ones you are excited about, and be sure to plug in some relaxing evenings in between. Have a great week! Leslie |
