For adults, especially parents, navigating the Christmas season and winter holidays -- coping with disrupted work and caretaking schedules, and stretching to achieve the ideal images bombarding them from every TV screen and store shelf, on top of already hectic routines -- can leave nerves and emotions scattered like so much glitter off a card. In the best case, happy holidays often means managing the magic with a migraine.

BE NATURAL: The key to surviving the holiday season

B -- Breathe deeply, it will help increase energy levels.
E -- Exercise: 20 minutes, three times a week -- and running from errand to errand doesn't count!
N -- Nutrition: Three well-balanced meals each day.
A -- Attitude: Negative attitudes are contagious and destructive. Try to see the glass half full.
T -- Time management: Set priorities and don't take on more than you can handle.
U -- Uniqueness: Recognize and treasure your own uniqueness. Say 'no' when necessary.
R -- Relaxation: Private time to read or listen to music -- a time not to focus on the next item to do.
A -- Associations: Maintain contact with nurturing support systems -- colleagues, friends, family.
L -- Laughter: Still the best medicine.

An excerpt from "Don't Worry, Be Natural!" by Indiana University South Bend education professors J. Vincent Peterson and Janette Shaw.  To read the entire article, click here.

More articles on handling Holiday Stress:

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