People can feel stressed at any time of year but when you already have a busy schedule and enough stress in work, add in the Christmas merry-go-round and the pressure can reach breaking point.



Buying presents can stretch the budget way beyond the bounds of credibility, demands on time increase, and family gatherings can be a challenge.

If you are facing the holiday period alone that can feel very daunting and may bring a lot of sadness.

This year simplify your life with these tips and enjoy the season more:

Decide now that you are not going to get into debt (or increase your debt) over Christmas. It really is the thought that counts and that starts with using your brain and the internet for gift shopping. Choosing a theme e.g books, films, music, slipper socks, means that everyone gets a different gift but you only have to look and buy in one place. It makes it easier to stick to your budget and sometimes you can get discounts on multiple purchases.

Practice breathing exercises. Breathe deeply and easily, letting your shoulders, neck, and back relax and let go. You can do this wherever you are, sitting at your desk works well.

During the holidays the average person gains 5 pounds and then comes yet another New Years Resolution to lose them. Why do that to yourself? Eat less the day before you are going to a party or big meal. Do simple things to move more, like dancing to your favorite songs or parking further away from work or the shops.

With friends, rather than buying gifts suggest that you spend time with each other instead. You could all go and see a film and have a break from the madness. You will save hours of trying to decide what they want, shopping, wrapping, etc.

Family gatherings are great if they are something you look forward to. However, if they tend to be a challenge, prepare emotionally ahead of time. Visualize yourself staying calm. Try to be detached, know that the party, day or whatever, will come to an end and you may not see the family for a while.

Release the need to make judgements or get pulled into those of others.

It helps to have a well developed sense of humour.



If you are planning and hosting a family event then consider reducing the amount of alcohol available as people are rarely at their best after a skinful.

Know that you deserve to have fun too so make sure you ask for and accept other peoples help.

Plan ahead. Make a list of priorities and stay focused on them. Spend a few minutes at night deciding what is most important to get done the next day. Be reasonable in your expectations!

Set boundaries for yourself. Its OK to say no to something you do not want to do. Respect your own need for time.

If you are spending the holiday period alone then do not set yourself up for sadness. It is easy to get into the poor me mindset. There are many who would envy you the peace and freedom.

Make this a special time for you. Visualise and plan the treat you are giving yourself. Get in some delightful foods, maybe some favourite films or books, pamper yourself.

Consider inviting someone to join you, you would be amazed how many people spend the holiday period alone.

Volunteers are usually in demand during this period and it can be very rewarding and sociable but only get involved if it is what you really want to do.

However you spend the holiday period,remember that letting someone know you care is the greatest gift of all. This season, say I love you as much as possible to family and friends. Let people know why they are special to you. Then remember to love and appreciate yourself.