STRESS IS NOT A STOCKING STUFFER
The Christmas and New Year holidays are to be a time of joy, sharing, contentment, and connecting with your loved ones. Unfortunately, the storybook holidays just do not come true for many of us. For some of us, the holiday blues and depression can be a sad reality at a time of meaningful celebration.
To prevent depression over the holidays, it is important to take particular steps to be around others who care and provide positive and supportive companionship. Consider the following stress reducing gifts brought to all of us by the famous eight reindeer:
Reindeer 1. Stress proof yourself by lightening your load and planning for times of fun in your schedule. Do not try to have a picture book perfection holiday schedule and experience. Be realistic.
Reindeer 2. Limit spending by sticking with a realistic budget for gifts, food and travel. Do not overuse credit cards. Moderation is the word.
Reindeer 3. Plan family time by scheduling events such as a drive down Christmas Tree Lane, watching a special television Christmas concert or program, taking a family hike together, or creating a new and unusual holiday tradition for the family.
Reindeer 4. Give “non-monetary” gifts such as promising to do a favor for someone, doing chores for someone, or some other random gifts of kindness.
Reindeer 5. Create a meaningful gift attitude and not give gifts to impress but give only to those who really need or will appreciate your gift. Cut your gift list to a reasonable number of names. You don’t have to give to all or give a bigger gift than you received last year.
Reindeer 6. Be a smart shopper by finding something on sale and buying many of them to give to those on your list. Also, try to shop alone whenever possible so you have a sense of peace. Farm the kids out so you can shop peacefully.
Reindeer 7. Enjoy the true meaning of the holidays by expressing your love and gratitude in many ways other than gift giving. Express your feelings in cards and personal notes to those for whom you are grateful.
Reindeer 8. Read the Christmas Story as recorded in the second chapter of Luke in the Bible. Read it in a different translation of the Bible. Talk about it with others until it becomes a meaningful story to you and your family.
An abundant life, a peaceful life, and a victorious life are possible even at times of stress such as Christmas and the New Year. Enjoy the Season with your family, friends, and associates without being disabled by stress.
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