Remember the things that are the most stressful are the things that you care the most about, but have the least control over.
World events, the economy, the way people respond, and our families (and children) are major stressors that we wish we could control, but often can not.

1. Schedule Time for Self-Care!
Regular exercise and time for stress management are a must. Find what techniques work best for you, and use these tools.
This is non-negotiable time devoted for your health and well being.

2. Eat Well
Moderation is the key. Do not use alcohol or drugs for stress management. Do not "over" celebrate. Avoid fast foods.

3. Avoid Caffeine
Minimize the impact of caffeine on your life.

4. Plan the Holiday... Set some limits
Do not over spend your financial and emotional resources.

5. Control Your Expectations of:
Happiness, Joy, Sadness, and Loneliness

6. Be Nice to Others
Give compliments and smile. Around negative, anxious, or rude people, take a breath and remember that you do not need to
get pulled into other people's holiday misery or their craziness.

7. Reach Out for Support
Talk with "stable" friends or family, or clergy, or mental health counselors.

8. Humor Helps... Have Fun
Laugh daily, if possible.

9. Stay in the Present!
Mentally and emotionally, do not be consumed by things that happened in the past or fear events in the future.
Enjoy the people you are with and make the very best of the situation that you are in.

10. Find the True Spirit of the Holidays
Share "the Spirit" of this holiday with those people who you love or care about. Give love and support to the people of the world.
Volunteer or go out of your way to be thoughtful and kind. A smile or a hug can go a long way. Sometimes it is just listening...
Show others that they have value and that you are aware of their special qualities.
via