Holiday Sanity

Are you starting to feel a bit of the Holiday pressure?  Does it seem like the lists are growing bigger every day?  Maybe you're feeling stressed about throwing a holiday party, a family function, or even deciding what to get for those on your gift list.  Every year it seems that right when Thanksgiving hits, we are tossed right into the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Black Friday comes followed by Cyber Monday and boom, we find ourselves running like crazy from here to there, trying to get everything done on time.  

If you are like me, you are probably waking up in the middle of the night thinking about all of the things that you need to accomplish.  You are also most likely lacking in the sleep department. If you are a busy multitasker, you may be making plans for work functions, end of season celebrations, holiday shopping, kids Christmas parties, teacher gifts, Santa stuff, decorating and all the other things that come with the holidays.  

Before you let the stress and anxiety creep up on you, I encourage you to stop right now, take a deep breath and try to put a few simple steps in place to keep the Holidays sane and as stress free as possible.  

1. List it - Make a list of events you need to plan for and what needs to get done to make them happen with success.  Next, a list of people you want to remember for the Holidays with cards, cookies, gifts, or even just a call to say hello with a cheerful wish.  Remember to check things off when they are done, so you are feeling accomplished.
2. Me time - Carve out some time each day to breathe, move, exercise, or stretch to make sure you are being mindful of your body and health.  After all, this is a time to think about others, but you need to make sure you take care of yourself.
3. Space it - Choose what you eat and drink wisely at parties and get togethers.  Partake in moderation, so you don't feel bad afterward that you may have overindulged.
4. Enjoy - Most importantly, have fun and celebrate a festive, spiritual, and meaningful Holiday time with people that are special to you and who bring love and joy to your life!

My favorite affirmation for staying sane this holiday season is;

"I will keep the joy in my heart through the Holidays and will focus on what is most important."