The holidays are always a very stressful, crazy time of year. Not only is there a ton of events, and parties but there's also the rich food, the booze and it's the darkest time of year. It's like the perfect storm of factors to come together and we end up feeling our absolute worst. We feel end up feeling anxious, depressed and stressed to our eyeballs. 
Some tips to trying to minimize this holiday stress this year: 

1. Say No. 

Don't be afraid to say no to events, to saying no to pushy family members to be in 4 places in the same time. Sometimes you need to set your boundaries and be firm on what you are and aren't willing to do. 

2. Take a Day/Afternoon/Evening off

It doesn't have to be a whole day, it could be a half day or even an evening, but take the time away from all the craziness of the parties, the running around and stress to do whatever you need to do to relax. This could be a quiet evening in, going to a yoga class etc, but taking that time for you will help you recharge. 

3. Set Limits on Gift Giving. 

Make arrangements with friends and family that you'll put a cap on spending or even pick secret santa's so you don't have to spend so much money. It's frustrating and not worth it to go into debt just for one day out of the year. Consider getting crafty and making something for gifts, it can be fun, and even more thoughtful. 

4. Meal Prep. 

There is SO much food and booze around the holidays and majority of the food is not super healthy. Make sure you meal plan and prep for those days to ensure you're not overindulging. If all you have is starchy leftovers in the fridge that's what you're going to eat. Ensure to eat small healthy meals throughout the day and that way you won't stuff yourself silly when dinner is served. 


5. Treat yo self. 

I buy myself a little something every year for christmas, it's not usually much but just something, last year it was the fluffiest, coziest socks and they made me very happy. Again, don't go into debt for that, but something small can be quite nice. A massage is also a great self gift, or a manicure. 


6. Get your workouts in. 

Ensuring that you balance the craziness and stress of the holidays with treating your body right and getting movement in is so important. Exercise is such great stress relief and can be a good way to step away during the holidays to get some you time in.