Balancing Holiday Stress
By Christina Andrianopoulos

Each holiday season, it seems as though the stress levels in my life elevate to their highest possible point; it seems to ruin the essence of what the holidays are supposed to be about. But this year is going to be different…instead of stressing out; I am going to reprioritize my schedule and learn to relax. Hopefully, that will help me focus on what really matters- my significant other, family and friends- and not holiday anxiety.

At a time of year when I most enjoy dining out or going to holiday concerts with my boyfriend, I find myself having to prioritize commitments and responsibilities—colleagues inviting me out for a few after work cocktails, then my parents informing me of our out of town relatives that will be visiting. I often schedule so many activities throughout the month of December that when I get invited to that one holiday party that has everyone talking, I panic. I pull out my Blackberry and navigate through the various dates trying to lay out my commitments to see what I can cut out without offending anyone. I start by trying to differentiate between the mandatory obligations, like dinner with my boyfriend’s parents and commitments I made from guilt…like taking mom shopping for my niece’s gifts. Although I would be happier shopping for myself or my significant other, I feel bad saying no to my mom. I realize that I am my own worst enemy. Therefore, with new found courage, I call up my mom and reschedule the buying spree for an early Saturday morning so I can make it to the party.

With only a few days left to shop and so many hectic shopping malls to visit, I feel overwhelmed with stress so I use one of my favorite stress-reducing techniques. I have learned that trying to separate oneself from a stressful situation is healthy. What works for me is trying to replace stressful thoughts with positive affirmations. So, while you’re waiting in a crowded, noisy, extremely slow cashier line and your stomach starts churning with anxiety, try utilizing yoga methods like taking in full deep breaths, holding it then releasing your breathe until you feel more relaxed. You’ll save yourself from losing your temper.

So with all my holiday shopping, parties and family gatherings, I’ve come to realize a few things: Nothing is more important than my health and state of mind, seasons and activities will come and go each year-- we should learn to enjoy each moment and last but not least, there is nothing more important than being with the people who are important to us. Happy holidays!