(ROCKWALL, TX – Dec. 22, 2015) Christmas is upon us. It is a time to be merry and jolly! Yet for many, the Christmas season can be very stressful.
My kids are now grown. But when they were young, I taught them the “12 Days of Christmas” song. By the twelfth day, we had a mouthful of words to get out at a fast speed. It reminds me of all the tasks at hand before Christmas Day arrives—it can be very overwhelming. So what can you do to tackle and manage the season without it tackling you?
When you think of or listen to the “12 Days of Christmas” song, remember these 12 Christmas Tips:
1. Plan ahead
Have a Christmas only calendar and a notebook. Make lists. Keep it with you so when you are out running errands, you can pickup items as you go. Create a budget.
2. Be real about your expectations
Don’t expect a “perfect” Christmas. It rarely happens; something might not go as planned. It will not be the end of your world! Laugh at the challenges that might come your way.
3. Don’t try to do everything
Ask for help! When hosting a party, why not ask family and friends to bring a dish or dessert. This is a good time to involve your kids. They can help with smaller tasks.
4. Don’t neglect family time
You can get so caught up in the hustle and bustle that you put your spouse and/or kids in the back seat. Fit in special time in your calendar. The Christmas season is a great time to build family memories.
5. Everything in moderation
It is easy to go overboard on Christmas. Diets are broken; exercise is put on a shelf until the New Year and the intake of alcohol increases. Though it is a time of food and festivities, a good word to remember is BALANCE and RESPONSIBILITY. Have a designated driver or call a taxi if you have been over served with alcohol.
6. Rehydrate
Drink lots of water. Alcohol dehydrates.
7. Bundle up and go for a walk (or go to the gym)
Walking or any kind of exercise releases endorphins and can make you feel oh-so-good. Exercise helps you combat the negative effects of stress.
8. Sleep
Sleeping helps our bodies recover from the excesses of life. Eating late, drinking alcohol, and frequent late nights can affect sleeping patterns. If possible, take time for short naps and make sure you are getting quality of sleep.
9. Time off
If possible, take time off to recuperate. It is easy to burn the candle at both ends.
10. On your own this Christmas
Consider opening your house to host an event or dinner. If possible, accept every invitation you get.
11. Remind yourself about the true meaning of Christmas
It is a time to celebrate the gift of Jesus. Attend the special Christmas services at the church of your choice.
12. A final word…
Maybe last year’s Christmas was a disaster. Don’t be afraid of trying something new.
Laugh, Rest and Rejoice!
By Blue Ribbon News guest columnist Enid Reyes, a Rockwall area Life, Relationship & Life Transitions Coach.
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