How to Avoid Holiday Stress: 12 Holiday Tips

1.) Give everyone some space. You don’t have to be together every minute. Do something on your own for a couple of hours.

2.) It’s okay to say no to some invitations, projects, outings, or extravaganzas.

3.) Tell stories and reminisce about the funniest holiday moments.

4.) When it’s time for rich conversation, turn off the TV.

5.) Make time for simple physical activity every day. Take a walk after every meal.

6.) Watch out for your sugar intake. It can create highs and crashes of mood.

7.) Do something simple as a family, like playing a board game. No smartphones allowed.

8.) Don’t sweat the small stuff. Nobody cares.

9.) Do something to help others — such as donating food or coats. Most communities, schools, and churches have activities.

10.) Make a visit to someone who may be lonely and crave a warm conversation.

11.) You need your sleep. Don’t stay up late every night and set yourself up for feeling fatigued, maybe cranky.

12.) Practice mindfulness and gratitude. It’s easy to get swept away by the excesses of the holidays.