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During the holiday season, it’s common for many people to be overwhelmed by stress. If this time of year is more likely to get you down, you’re a good candidate for these stress-relieving holiday tips.

Realistic Expectations
Sometimes the most difficult expectations to overcome are your own. If you’re caught up in creating the perfect holiday or overwhelmed because of the superhuman effort it takes to do it all, maybe a change in attitude is in order. Or a change in shopping habits. Try browsing online or shop the late hours when stores are less crowded.

Eat Healthy Snacks
Don’t skip meals and become so hungry you binge on sugary, fat-laden treats. Eating high-saturated fatty foods while stressed makes the fats more damaging to your body and can contribute to major illnesses. Stock your kitchen with foods proven to bring stress levels down: oranges, avocados, walnuts, and even dark chocolate.

Say Yes to Making Memories
It’s okay to trim things down to stay on budget, and to maintain your sanity, but preserve the important things, like family traditions. Maybe your kid won’t get absolutely everything on their gift list, but if they love decorating sugar cookies, make time to bake and decorate those cookies!

Prescription: Sleep
Just before bed, make a list of everything you still need to accomplish, or you won’t be able to think of anything else as soon as you turn off the light. Is insomnia adding to your stress? Try drinking eight ounces of tart cherry juice several hours before bedtime. Studies show that the melatonin in tart cherry juice can help you sleep better.

Some stress is unavoidable. But if you mind those healthy habits, strategize shopping plans, and let the kids have their fun, you can enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.

Holiday Survival Tips