It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but the holidays are also one of the most stressful times of the year for many people. If not managed effectively, all this excess stress can result in not only ruining your holiday but weakening the immune system which leaves you vulnerable to viruses and colds etc., increasing blood pressure, headaches, anxiety, depression, cravings for sweets, weakening the adrenal glands and many more negative health effects.

Use some of these holiday stress busters to bring more joy and happiness into your celebration:

1. Acknowledge your feelings, don’t stuff them. Talk about them with your friends, family or even a professional.
2. Don’t over commit. You don’t have to attend every event you’re invited to. You don’t have to attend any of them if you don’t feel like it.
3. Do what’s enjoyable to you, not what others expect of you.
4. Make time for yourself. Take a break and do something relaxing, like a long hot bath, reading a book, meditating or listening to soothing music.
5. Engage in deep breathing exercises. Deep breaths in through the nose and out through the nose.
6. Exercise regularly, it’s one of the most effective methods for destressing.
7. Take a walk and spend time with nature.
8. Plan ahead. Don’t get caught off guard and try not to do too much at one time.
9. Be realistic. The media presents us with an image of the holiday season that is unrealistic and results in depression and disappointment when it can’t be achieved. Your holiday does not have to be perfect or fit any particular mold.
10. Keep it simple. The holiday does not have to be extravagant to be joyful.
11. Skip the sugar and caffeine. Sugar and caffeine alter neurotransmitters in the brain that results in anxiety, hyperactivity, depression, food cravings and mood swings.
12. Get a massage.
13. Make love. Sex is another very effective method for relieving holiday stress. If you’re without partner, indulge in a little self-pleasure.
14. Get adequate sleep. Take naps if needed.
15. Spend quality time with your loved ones just enjoying one another.
16. Play a board game or cards with your loved ones.
17. Watch a good movie or two. Allow yourself to be completely absorbed and swept away.
18. Make a list of the things you have to be grateful for.
19. Spend some time alone in complete silence.
20. Dance. This doesn’t have to be a dance club. Turn on your radio or favorite CD and dance in your living room.
21. Take a country ride.
22. Stay home this year instead of traveling.
23. Do your shopping online instead of at the mall or give gift certificates for online stores.
24. Delegate responsibilities. You don’t have to do it all. Ask friends, children spouse, parents etc. to give you a helping a hand.
25. Keep hydrated and take your vitamins. Antioxidants like Vitamin C and E and the B complex vitamins are especially good for stress, as well as zinc and magnesium.

There’s no way to avoid it completely, but if you practice some of these holiday stress busters you’ll be sure to have a happier and healthier holiday.

Don’t lose sight of the true meaning of the holiday — loving, giving and being grateful. Slow things down a little, take time for yourself and cherish the moments you spend with those who are important to you.