How Can We Lessen Holiday Stress?

I don't remember who originally wrote the but it’s a really good thought:

The first thing to do is be realistic about what you can and can not do. Are you gearing yourself up for the kind of event that only a woman working full-time inside the home for months could pull off? Unfortunately, there are hundreds of “ideal” images planted in our brains showing how great family holidays should be. They show us how they should look, taste, and even make us feel. Realize that you do not have to live up to the lofty ideas portrayed by television shows, movies, and magazines that depict an idealized vision of the season. It’s OK.

Another thought:

Many women make the mistake of neglecting their own health and personal needs during the busy holiday season (or all year for that matter). You will find that if you take the time to eat a healthful diet, exercise, and just sit and relax once in awhile, you will be more energized.  Your body will be stronger and healthier and will reflect beautiful hair, skin and nails.

Remember YOU are #1

You may think your kids and family are the most important and that they are “#1”.  Actually YOU are “#1”. If you get sick, mentally or physically, then who will take care of those very important kids and family members?

You are the only you there is and ever will be

so take great care of yourself  ~

This is a message from CherylRichardson 2012:

During the next couple of weeks, I encourage you to give yourself the gift of extreme self-care. Relax and surrender to the magic of the season. Let good enough be good enough. Put your precious energy into enjoying time by yourself and with the people who matter most to your heart.

At the end of the day, it's helpful to remember this...