As the hustle and bustle of preparing for the Christmas holidays threatens to overwhelm us, what with planning for relatives’ visits, or cooking or shopping, try something this holiday season and make it a new family tradition.

Take some time out.

At least once a day, take an hour for yourself alone. Sit quietly, perhaps with some (non-alcoholic) eggnog. Read some Christmas cards. Relax with a feel-good movie. If taking a drive does it for you, do that. The point is to step back for some personal time to recharge your batteries and not allow holiday stress to overcome you.

Too often, people will let the holidays sweep over them and overcome them with obligations and deadlines. Learn to delegate some chores. Allow the children a little more involvement in the holiday planning. Perhaps call up a friend you haven’t spoken with for quite some time. Take a nap.

Allow a little peace to come into your daily life. Think good thoughts. Reflect back about an especially happy Christmas from your childhood. Read your Bible.

Doing all this will help you keep your sanity and put you in a much better frame of mind to enjoy the holidays, your family and your friends. And, while you’re at it, avoid drinking any alcoholic drinks. That’s an artificial, chemical relaxation and not natural. It could also end up adding to your holiday stress.

Instead, reflect on the blessings in your life. From good health to good relations with your family to good friends, perhaps a good job or enjoyable pastimes, talents or skills. This season is one for acknowledging the blessings in our life. Stop for a moment every day and do just that.

L’Observateur