Avoid the Gift of Stress

Holidays bring the gift of fun, family and excitement. However, stress can be found under the tree, too.

To help CSU students and alumni stay mentally and physically healthy during the holidays, we’re sharing some tips to avoid holiday stress:

• Maintain healthy habits.  Be physically active, get sufficient sleep and eat a nutritious, healthy diet. Before attending events where a lot of tempting food will be present, curb your hunger with a healthy snack.
• Reach out and enjoy friends and family, but at the same time, know your limits and don’t overextend yourself. It’s OK to say “no” at times.  Saying “yes” to everything may leave you feeling overwhelmed and resentful. Be particular about the activities in which you choose to participate and attend.
• Make and adhere to a budget. Before you shop, decide how much money you want to spend…and stick to it. You can show your thoughtfulness in ways besides large, expensive gifts: donate to a charity in someone’s name, give homemade gifts or start a family gift exchange.
• Don’t expect perfection from yourself or anyone else. Recognize your stressful holiday triggers. Be proactive in planning ahead and deciding how you will combat them. Be positive and enjoy the spirit of the season as well as time w/ family and friends.
• Evaluate your holiday traditions. They certain have value, but circumstances in your life over the past year may warrant changes. Be open-minded, flexible and willing to compromise.

Do you have any tips you use to beat holiday stress? Please share with us in the comments below.