Humming Through The Holidays
Author: Penny Plautz

1. ‘Tis the Season to Be Jolly…
If you’ve lost your sense of humor, find it immediately! Create a stress relief kit that contains such stress-busting devices as a back massager, herbal teas, bubble bath, island getaway brochures, or funny photos. Keep this kit with you at all times. Remind yourself you are only one thought away from a different perspective.

2. Let It Snow…
You don’t have to wish for the fluffy white stuff to perfect the holiday picture. But it is wise to acknowledge that there are certain things that are out of your control (like the weather). What is in your control is your reaction to events. If you can let go of your expectations and accept things as they are, you can survive seasonal setbacks as well as celebrate seasonal surprises.

3. Making a List and Checking It Twice…
Don’t expect your already overloaded mind to remember anymore than your way home and the names of your immediate family members. Count on lists to remind you of those things you have determined you must do (like find your car when you come out of the mall). Make as many lists as necessary, but review them all before taking action. Prioritize, organize, scrutinize, and compromise, if necessary. Put at least one fun thing on your list every day.

4. Dashing Through the Snow…
Okay, not everyone can dash through snow, but the idea is that movement is absolutely essential to your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Maybe now is not an opportune time for you to start a fitness program (because Santa has your stairmachine, right?), but there are many ways you can incorporate movement into your day. Having to park three miles away from any place peopled with shoppers gives you an excellent opportunity to squeeze in a little aerobic activity. Carrying your purchases back to that same location might be considered strength training. It’s amazing how many ways you can work in a workout.

5. Chestnuts Roasting on a Open Fire…
Too many of those nuts, candies, and homemade delights might tip the scales out of your favor. If you are sipping Jack Daniels to handle your woes or to prevent Jack Frost from nipping at your nose, the combination of indulgences could wreak havoc on your health. It has been estimated that Americans gain an average of seven to ten pounds over the holidays. To guarantee that you don’t become one of those weight bearing statistics, pay attention to the partridge and hang out around the pear tree instead of the party table.

6. Deck the Halls…
Surround yourself with things that bring you joy. Succumb to a roaring fire in your fireplace. Slip into your Santa slippers and sweats as soon as you get home. Bring a bean bag elf to the office or hang mistletoe in the cafeteria. Designate a room, corner, or cupboard as your own. Then decorate that space as only you know how. Your spirit needs nourishment and encouragement. Be sure to give it the time and place to soar.

7. I’ll Be Home for Christmas…
Many families are spread out over the country. This can present not only logistical challenges, but financial and emotional ones as well when you attempt to make it “home” for the holidays. Determine if the benefits of being home are worth the stresses you may encounter getting there – especially if you are organizing this pilgrimage for your household. If home is where your heart is, then may the force be with you in your travels! But if travelling makes your heart weary, know you can create the feeling of home wherever you are by sharing who you are with those around you. If your friends have left town, volunteer at a shelter, a church, or local charity. Your presence there may be the best present you give and receive this Christmas.

8. All I Want for Christmas Is…
If you don’t understand the essence of what it is you want, you seldom feel satisfied when you receive it. Look at what lies beneath your wish list. What will having this item do for you? What about those on your list? What might be the underlying essence of what they want? Can you give it to them in a more authentic or direct way? Is it possible that something you make that honors their spirit might bring them more joy than the expensive gift that busts your budget?

9. Silent Night…
Take some time out to get quiet and tune in to the gifts of the season. From the sound of carolers outside your window to the squeals of small children on Santa’s lap to the brightly colored lights decorating the streets where you live, notice the abundance of beauty that surrounds you.

10. Joy to the World…
In the end, it all comes down to attitude. This season examine your beliefs regarding what you “should” do, “must” do or “have to” do. Now consider altering your perception of these things by “choosing to” do them instead. You may decide some of the things are simply not worth the energy it takes to accomplish them. When life becomes a choice instead of a chore, the world looks a lot brighter…and you have more energy to spread that joy around!

Healthy Holidays to You!






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Penny Plautz works with individuals and corporations to reduce stress and restore balance. She can be reached at penny@wellpower.com or visited on the web at www.stressedforsuccess.com.

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