December
2008
5 Self-Help Tips to Overcome Holiday Stress
We’ve all been there, are going there, or we’re already there – our stress levels have reached maximum overload and we’re going to turn purple in the face from the kids, the dog, the spouse, work (or job loss) — and the emotional ups and downs of the holiday season. But there are some things you can do to keep your wits (and your sanity) during these nerve-racking times. 
Stress Exhibit 1 – Career Anxiety
You’ve just discovered that your employer is in the process of a major layoff, and you might be next on the chopping block. Now you’re trying to figure out what you’re going to do IF you are met with this unfortunate fate. First of all, STOP WORRYING. Breathe. If it’s going to happen, there is not much you can do about it right now. Secondly, start planning! Planning? Yes! Perhaps you weren’t aware, but there is a major influx of jobs in the healthcare and mining industries. If for some reason, you’re career field is in an economic slump, it may be time for you to rethink and strategize a new career plan. Actually, this is the best time to readjust your thinking and your goals by putting together a map for success. If you work days, check into your local technical school or alternative learning center for evening and weekend classes. Prime example of some career re-training is provided by massage schools, which not only offer convenient educational courses but also participate in federal financial aid programs. So, do not let money (or lack thereof) create a roadblock for you and your future. Remember, every thing happens for a reason and this may be an opportunity for you to start a new and rewarding career in a field that you’ve always wanted to pursue!
Stress Exhibit 2 – Emotional Depression
You’re emotionally drained and you’re still dwelling on hurt feelings from the past. The holiday season just seems to be compounding your emotions, and you’re on a trip to Doomsville. Don’t let hurtful memories build up in your life by consuming yourself with negative energy. Instead, focus on all the positive things that have happened to you over the course of your lifetime. And if that doesn’t work, start a meditation ritual. Taking just a few moments from your day to concentrate on happy thoughts makes a world of difference. But, if you can find a local yoga class, that would be even better. In fact, yoga is proven to help individuals overcome stressful situations; and by teaching you how to rest your mind, yoga promotes self-acceptance and encourages harmony between mind, body, and spirit.
Stress Exhibit 3 – Family Stress
Family can really put a cramp in your lifestyle. Okay, we know they love us very much, but having things their way often provokes the inner beast in us all. You’ve already made plenty of concessions to see things their way, but now you’ve reached boiling point and you’re ready to explode. Breathe. Now is a great time to learn a new stress-reduction technique like Breema. Breema is a self-healing, nurturing exercise that mixes tension relieving stretches with Nine Principles of Harmony (i.e., single moment/single activity; no judgment, etc.) Of course, you can also take up a personal fitness training routing where you can kick-box away all the stress of the day! Remember, too — you only have one family, so cherish every moment they’re with you.
Stress Exhibit 4 – Financial Woes
This holiday season looks as if you might be a little short on cash. This is yet another good time to refocus your energy and think of ways you can cut spending. If you’re paying $200 monthly for satellite television, perhaps you can do without the movie channels for a couple of months to get more dough in your pockets. If the electric bill is running higher than usual, look at ways you can cut energy costs by going greener. Switch regular light bulbs with more efficient florescent lights. Don’t leave lights and other electrical appliances running when you’re not using them. Conserve gas by sharing a ride with a coworker, and shopping in pairs. Not only is the trip less costly, but you might just enjoy a great conversation. Cut coupons and shop for specials only – and if you can locate a grocer that price matches, shop there for all your home and living needs. And, if you’ve spared all you could and you’re still low on dough, then you may just want to rethink your current lifestyle. Now is the perfect occasion to review your career options. If you’re not earning your worth…or your potential worth, then explore fields that might give you the challenge and monetary prospects you’re seeking. Some alternative health jobs and related careers like holistic nursing, massage therapy, chiropractic, spa-beauty, and personal fitness training (among others) are on the increase and should see major growth potential in the coming years.
Stress Exhibit 5 – Holiday Shopping and Decorating
Now here is the crème de la crème – all stress aside, it’s time for you to do your holiday shopping and home decorating. Hard-core shoppers quickly find and purchase holiday gifts on Black Friday – but for the procrastinating many, the longer the wait, the harder it is to finish off the holiday gift list. Additionally, those who procrastinate with gifts are also more prone to procrastinating with decorating. By the time you realize it, the lights are still in the garden shed or attic…and the potential exists that these lights are not only tangled up in a mess of wires and knots, but they probably no longer work. Yikes! Now you not only have to complete your holiday gift list, you have to buy decorations, too! Okay, calm down. Stress, in some cases (like holiday shopping/decorating) is self-inflicted. Get a relaxing aromatherapy massage and get a move on! You still have 24 days until Christmas…and, if you celebrate Hanukkah, well – you only have 21 days left. Happy Stress-free Holidays! 
