Dr. Barton Goldsmith

We all get stressed during the holiday season. Most of us just deal with whatever is currently pressing on us without thinking about what it's doing to our bodies and brains. But when you are stressed, powerful chemicals, such as adenine, course through your system to help you battle your demons. The holidays can easily make what would normally be a small issue into something much bigger. Luckily, there are several things you can do to lower your stress during the seasonal rush.

Don't overspend

One of the biggest stressors of the December holidays comes later when we get the January bills. It has been a tough few years; most people are cutting back, and you may find that spending less just makes sense right now. If you feel that you have to go overboard to enjoy the holiday, you may want to rethink what this time of year is all about. Giving from the heart is the truest gift you can offer. No amount of money is going to make up for the love that you can give to those you care about.

Enjoy every moment possible

For many of us, the holidays are the most wonderful time of the year. The trick is tuning into the good parts while learning to cope with the troublesome. We all have a choice about our reactions, and teaching yourself to take in the good while letting the bad roll off your back is a great gift to give yourself. Don't let the chaos get to you, and treasure the beauty and love that you find.

Relax for a minute

Take one minute a day to imagine yourself feeling totally relaxed on top of a majestic mountain. It will help if you can picture the beach and surf crashing below; you can go even deeper by imagining the smell of clear winter air and sound of holiday music. Even though it is only for a minute (you can take longer if you like), it will lower your heart rate and blood pressure and give you a feeling of peace.

Keep your energy balanced

If you can't enjoy what the season has to offer, it could mean you're feeling hungry, angry, lonely or tired. A lot of people push themselves too hard at this time of year. A light snack and a power nap could be all that's needed to get back in mood.

"If interpersonal things are weighing on you," Dr.Goldsmith advises,"talk with loved ones about what's going on."

You don't have to be a Santaholic to enjoy holidays but concentrate on positives reduce stressors life allow true meaning season flow heart head.