Does the sound of jingle bells make your shoulders instantly tense and your head hurt? You’re not alone. The holiday season, as joyful as it can be, is typically the most stressful time of year for many people. Seasonal mood changes can add to the situation, as lower amounts of sunlight in the winter are linked to higher depression rates. (Source: National Institute of Mental Health NIMH) So, staying stress free this season is typically more difficult than other times of year. Here are some of the best ways to reduce stress and make the holidays enjoyable again.

#1- Set a budget, stick to it. Most studies agree that finances are the leading cause of stress in the US. This year, set yourself a holiday budget and stick to it. Make a list of common holiday expenses including gifts, entertaining, travel, etc., and set a limit on your spending that works for you and your family. Doing this not only helps your wallet, but keeps you from stressing over your bank account balance.

#2- Shop early.  Procrastination can be a major source of stress and anxiety. Start making gift lists and pick up items as early as possible in the season. It will help you avoid the traffic and mobs of shoppers that flood the malls and department stores in the weeks right before the holidays.

#3- Travel Smart.If you are heading out to visit family, whether by plane, train or automobile, be prepared. First of all, expect flight delays and traffic jams because they are almost unavoidable no matter where you are across the country. Give yourself plenty of time and a less-rigid schedule so you won’t stress out when your trip takes longer than usual. Also, check your driver’s license, registration, auto insurance and vehicle inspection sticker to be sure your documentation is up-to-date and handy when driving. An unexpected traffic ticket is enough to ruin anyone’s holiday cheer.

#4- Avoid Last Minute Meal Preparation. If you are planning on entertaining family and friends this Holiday season, try to plan your meal preparations so that you aren’t frantically cooking at the last minute. Many of your favorites recipes can be partially prepared ahead of time so that you have less to do on the actually day-of.  (Here’s a list from Good Housekeeping)

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