well being

9tips for holiday cheer

By Julie Young

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but with so many places to go, things to buy and people to see, it is hard to stay “happy” throughout the holiday season. If you fear turning into a grinch before the end of the year, we’ve got the top tips you need to fill your cup with holiday cheer!

Take care of yourself 1. With all of the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to forego your regular workouts and other rituals that help you take care of yourself and unwind. Don’t let these practices get moved to the back burner. 2. Eat real food. It’s all too easy to focus on yummy baked goods, cookies and candy this time of year. Don’t fill up on empty calories that will leave you feeling less than your best. 3. Build in some down time. Even if you enjoy being a social butterfly, it is important to build some down time into your calendar so that you can recharge your batteries and feel fresh for your next event. 4. Learn to say no. There is no rule that says you must attend every party or participate in every gift exchange, and there is no prize for overextending yourself. The holidays are a hectic time, so feel free to bow out when it gets to be too much and don’t feel guilty about it. Plan ahead 5. If you have guests staying with you throughout the holidays, don’t wait until they arrive to figure out all the logistics. Communication is the key to a calm and conflict-free experience for everyone involved. 6. Stick to your budget. It’s easy to go overboard during the holidays, but let’s face it – money can’t buy happiness. It can purchase a whole lot of regret when the festivities are over and the warm, fuzzy feelings of generosity have ebbed. Remember your resolve every time you consider taking advantage of yet another sale. Be realistic 7. It may be the season of miracles, but the holidays rarely include a Hallmark movie ending. Families will bicker. Strained relationships will remain tense, and awkward situations will continue to be uncomfortable. Focus your energy only on what you can control and check your feelings at the door. 8. Manage expectations – your own and everyone else’s. With supply chain shortages creating bare shelves everywhere, the perfect present may prove to be more expensive, provided you can find it at all. If those on your gift list are expecting products affected by the retail gridlock, discuss the issue frankly so they won’t be disappointed. 9. Prioritize quality time. Let’s face it, most of us do not need more stuff so why not commit to spending quality time with loved ones rather than striving to find them the perfect present. Be present instead and you will create memories to cherish forever.