10 Ways to Banish Holiday Stress

It is the most wonderful time of the year! But, as we all know there is a lot more to the holidays than candy canes, sugarplums, and holiday cheer. I mean let’s be honest, The 12 days of Christmas should include long lines at the stores, awkward moments with the in-laws, and endless to-do's. Holiday stress is a real thing, but it doesn’t have to turn you into a Grinch. Here are a few tips to conquer your stresses and make this holiday season truly wonderful.

1. Go outdoors: Go for a run, walk, hike, or bike.  Take advantage of Christmas in California by enjoying the great outdoors. My family and I used to bike along the strand and then grab brunch before riding back. It is such a unique memory and a great way to stay healthy as a family. Even if you aren't spending the holidays on the sunny West Coast, take a moment to go outside and allow the cool crisp air to revitalize you.
2. Do something just for you: We naturally share our energy with those around us. Therefore, if you are feeling stressed, irritable, or overworked you can’t help but project negativity to those around you. In order to serve others, you must serve yourself first. That is why it is crucial to take care of your health and bliss so that you can share positive and loving energy. Your “you” time could be going for a run, taking a yoga class, or getting pampered. Whatever the case, take care of you first and I promise you won’t regret it.
3. Get more sleep: I like to call the winter season, “human hibernation.” Just like animals, us humans need to make adjustments with the change in seasons. During springtime we clean, before summer we get “bikini bod” ready, and during winter we crave more sleep. Give into what your body needs and catch some zzz's. Try to go to sleep an hour early than you are used to. I know it may sound completely ridiculous, but turn off your TV early and read a book or listen to meditation tapes to help you relax before bed.
4. Say no: It is so easy to get caught up in “yes” mode and overwork yourself. Try saying no for once. Pick and choose what you can do and say no to what is unreasonable for your schedule.
5. Laugh: Hang out with people that make you laugh or see a funny movie.  Laughter is good for your health by relaxing the body and boosting your immune system. I mean who doesn’t love to laugh?
6. Let go of perfection: Stop obsessing over doing it all and achieving perfection 24/7. It’s not the end of the world if one batch of cookies burn or if you are a couple minutes late to a holiday party. Instead, focus your energy on enjoying the people in your life and being grateful for this time that only happens once a year.
7. Turn off your tech devices during the weekends or family gatherings: I get extremely stressed out when I see a bunch of emails piling up over the weekend. As soon as I see them no matter where I am, I feel the need to respond immediately. The truth is, it can wait. Being surrounded by friends and family are far more important than responding to an email regarding work that you probably won't get to until Monday morning. If you feel uncomfortable with completely turning off your phone, try setting it off to the side where you won't look at it. As Elsa from Frozen says, let it go.
8. Turn up the tunes: When I am feeling overwhelmed, I love to blast the music in my car and horribly sing along to Adele or Justin Bieber (windows up or down are optional). Get lost in the songs that you love to settle all the crazy chatter in your mind.
9. Give back: Choose one thing that you are passionate about and share that love with others. It could be a passion for animals, yoga, or giving back to those less fortunate. Get creative and have fun with it. For example, my friend Audra Stanley is leading a donation based yoga class at YogaRaj on 12/18 at 6:30pm in Santa Monica and all the proceeds go to the people of skid row. 
10. Drink & be merry: I happen to have a slight obsession with wine and my newest love is mulled wine. It’s extremely easy to make and the best part is that you can customize the fruits you put in it. If you aren’t a fan of citrus feel free to opt for cranberries instead. I also love to make it in a crockpot to keep it warm. Check out this easy to follow recipe and share the love with family and friends.