1. Eat Chocolate: Dark chocolate is full of antioxidant flavonoids. The National Academy of Sciences reports that flavonoids help blood vessels relax and aid in calming overall stress.
2. Set Expectations: No Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanza or other holiday celebration is perfect. A lopsided tree or burnt brisket won’t ruin your day — but it will create a family memory.
3. Seek Support: The holidays are most stressful on women, who normally talk to their girlfriends about everything but holiday stress. When you learn to talk out your anxieties, you may find unexpected solutions.
4. You Time: Remember you’re only one person. If you need to hire a caterer or a cleaning service, do so. But don’t let managing staff become another stressor.
5. Chose Laughter: Studies have shown that if your temporary escape is a movie, pick a comedy to ease anxiety and increase blood flow to the heart while you giggle, snort and laugh day or night.
6. Hoku Rub: The “hoku” is the flap of skin between your thumb and first finger. Squeeze it to reduce stress up to 39% according to recent studies.
7. Embrace Clutter: Moderate messes can actually minimize anxiety reports Columbia School of Business Professor Eric Abramson. They also enrich creativity…so bring on the holiday décor!
8. No Way: Saying yes when you should say no can leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Be realistic, you can’t help out with every project and activity
9. Peace & Love: Agree to postpone discussion of family grievances until a more appropriate time. Chances are others are feeling the effects of holiday stress and depression, too, so avoid confrontation at all costs.
10. Curb Cravings: Overindulgence only adds to stress and guilt to your already hectic life. Have a healthy snack before a holiday party and drink lots of water so you don’t go overboard on sweets, cheese or cocktails.
