STRESS-FREE FAMILY HOLIDAY SURVIVAL GUIDE: ~ Frankie Perez

The holidays can be extremely stressful times. Keep in mind the following tips to make it through with ease.

1. Learn to say “no”. If a request will end up adding to your stress and rob you of your ability to enjoy yourself, let go of the guilt and say “no”.

2. Be present. Sometimes we forget to be in the here and now. Give your attention and your love to each person, and listen & connect fully. That is the best present you can give.

3. Remember your age. It is almost an automatic reaction to regress to being twelve around your family. Only by being an adult can you have a happy adult interaction with others.

4. Practice Self-Care. Make a conscious decision to take care of yourself during the holidays. This is non-negotiable, no matter how hectic your schedule may be. Eat well, drink plenty of water, rest, exercise, meditate, or do whatever you need to do to connect with yourself. Only by giving to yourself first can you give your best to others.

5. Love and Light. If an upcoming situation is bringing up stress, close your eyes and visualize the situation and yourself wrapped in love and white light. Keep this image until you feel the ease of tension from your heart.

6. Have fun!