The holidays can be a magical time full of tradition and memories. But extra social and financial obligations can make for a stressful holiday season. Here are some tips to help ease the season's stress and make your holidays healthy and happy.

Holiday Do’s

• Do talk to your children about realistic expectations
  • Children are especially vulnerable to commercial stimuli during the holiday season. But all kids really need are realistic expectations and strong, loving family traditions. 
• Do talk with friends and family about gift alternatives.
  • Gifts don’t have to be tangible. Trade intangible gifts with each other, such as help with yardwork or babysitting services.
• Do make time for “me time.” 
  • Say no to some of the demands on your time so you can relax and recharge.  
• Do change your mindset if you need to
  • Release negative thoughts and expectations
  • Determine the source of your guilty feelings
  • Adjust your expectations
  • Channel healthy nostalgia 

Holiday Don’ts 

• Don’t overindulge
  • This includes both food and alcohol. Continue eating a healthy diet during the holidays, and never show up to a party hungry. 
• Don’t force yourself to revel 
  • Ask yourself if you really enjoy all the rituals. Perhaps they have merely become habits. Try choosing less elaborate traditions. 
• Don’t isolate yourself
  • The holidays can be times of loneliness. If you are feeling the holiday blues, have a heart to heart with a friend or attend a social outing in your community.  
• Don’t spend randomly.
  • Set a budget and stick to it. Spend time as a family and teach your children the true meaning of giving by giving back to others in need. 

The bottom line- the holidays should be a time of joyous celebration for you to enjoy with your loved ones. Plan ahead for the unexpected, shift your mindset and perspective and stop to enjoy the moment.