When stress is at its highest level, it's hard to stop and settle yourself down. Try to prevent stress from the beginning, especially if the holidays have taken an emotional toll on you in the past.

1. Be realistic. The holidays do not have to be perfect every year.  If you are stressed about finding the right gifts, or preparing the best food, take a moment and remember what CHRISTmas is really about. In addition to that, realize that as families change and become larger, traditions often change as well.  As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few of the most important traditions to hold onto, and let the other ones go.
   
2. Stick to a budget. Before you go out and buy the entire mall, sit down with your family and decide exactly how much money you have to spend.  Take cash with you, not credit cards! This will help with overspending. Stick to your budget, and do not try and buy happiness with expensive gifts!  Try these alternatives: Donate to a charity in someone's name, give homemade gifts or start a family gift exchange.
3. Plan ahead. Set aside specific days for all of your holiday activities. This includes; shopping, baking, wrapping, and social events. Do not allow yourself to get outside of your schedule.  If you plan ahead, you will get everything done ahead of schedule.
   
4. Learn to say no. You are not a super hero!  Saying yes to everything people ask you to do will certainly overwhelm you, and may even make you angry!  People will understand if you cannot participate in every single project and activity that is going on. If you are forced to work overtime, try to eliminate something from your personal schedule to allow time to rest.
5. Don't abandon healthy habits. Do not let the holidays become a free for all. Going overboard with eating only adds to your stress, and will leave you feeling guilty. Eat healthy snacks before attending holiday parties so that you don't go overboard on sweets, cheese or drinks. Continue to get plenty of sleep and physical activity.
6. Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do. Take a walk at night and stargaze. Listen to soothing music. Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm.
7. GET ADJUSTED!!!!! Despite giving it your very best, you may find yourself feeling persistently stressed out and anxious, plagued complaints, unable to obtain enough sleep, irritable, and unable to face your daily tasks. Getting adjusted will help your nervous system function at it's best, which will allow you to make it through these tough challenges. It will also allow your immune system to fight off any illnesses that try to creep their way in.