Holiday stress is something that everyone seems to endure.  It doesn’t help that two of the major holidays of the year come back to back.  It seems that we have endless shopping lists for Thanksgiving, to be followed by hours of cooking and time with family members that we may or may not enjoy.

Then Christmas follows with even longer lists, cooking, holiday cards, parties, family gatherings and let’s not forget the endless hours of wrapping gifts.  Are you stressed yet?

Did you know that there are two types of holiday stress?  The two types are preparation stress and the other is familial stress.  Let’s take a look at what each of these involves and how we can avoid the stress that accompanies each type.

Preparation stress, the meaning is in the word.  All too often we are stressing to prepare for the perfect holiday.  Did you notice the key word in that last sentence?  Here’s a hint… the ‘perfect’ holiday.  First of all we must come to the realization that there is no such thing as a ‘perfect’ holiday and the ones we think are ‘perfect’ are merely imagined.  Yes, you read that correctly, it’s all in our imaginations.  We tend to build up the dinner for Thanksgiving and the gift giving for Christmas and when it falls short then depression sets in.  Instead of stressing over the burnt cookies or the turkey that the dogs are enjoying instead of the family, relax.  Think of the stories you will tell next year and the years to come.

To avoid the preparation stress involve others in the preparation process.  Who says YOU have to do it all alone?  Don’t get fixated on everything being perfect, enjoy the time shared with your family and friends as they help you prepare the meals and decorate the house.  You will spend less time and have the opportunity to devote your time to other activities.

Familial stress occurs when difficult family members come to visit or perhaps you have to visit them.  Some people are just annoying and if you understand that up front, you will be able to handle the difficult situations.  Before responding to their snide remarks about your meal or your decorations, take a deep breathe and simply smile.  Understand that the person with the issues is not you, smile and confuse them, that’s always fun.

During the holidays we tend to take every remark personally which will lead to the stress we could have easily avoided.  If you get easily offended, perhaps another family member should host the family gathering.  The stress will be released and you will be able to enjoy yourself more.

Lastly, holidays are about family time and remembering why we are truly thankful.  It is difficult to think about the good times when we are stressed out of our minds.  Turn down the stress by releasing the preconceived notions of a ‘perfect’ holiday and ask for help.  You will see how such simple tips can become a true gift. Remember to breathe and smile!

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Dr. Mommy Health Tips will return in January of 2010 with more health tips.