As we get closer to the holidays, the stress tends to increase. Shopping;all the stuff that has to get done before the time off; school pressure and exams; the preparations for any travel or the visits of loved ones; all this and more can ramp up the stress you feel to incredible levels.
You know it's going to happen, but what can you do about it?
1) First take a break. No matter how pressured you feel to get things done, stopping for a few moments to do something completely different will actually make the time you pour into what you're doing much more focused and efficient.
2) Kindness makes it easier to cope. Volunteer or spend time with your friends. Get someone to help you with all the stuff that needs to be done. Shop with a friend. All of these will help to reduce the stress.
3) Whenever you feel the stress levels creeping up and you can't take a break right then and there, take a deep breath and put things into perspective. Everything will get done; you know it will.
4) Lastly, do something that makes you laugh. Whether it's listening to a comedy bit while you're shopping, or watching the Marx brothers at home, laughter is probably one of the best ways to diffuse stress.
By the way, relaxation techniques, yoga, mindfulness, all can play an important role and of course you need to make certain you get enough rest, eat wisely and exercise. All that is even more important now!