Gearing Up for the Holidays It is "that time of the year" again. This year, due to national and international events, we are all a bit more stressed than usual BEFORE we enter the hectic holiday season. It is important to manage stress for our emotional and physical well being, and stress management is especially vital during the holidays when we have to deal with a concentration of shopping, family gatherings and social events. Here are a few tips that may help you control your stress level this holiday season: Get physical: Studies have shown that exercise produces a relaxation response that improves mood and reduces stress. In addition, it burns calories. Take a few minutes and go for a walk, rake some leaves, romp with the kids, punch some pillows - get your body moving. Be reasonable: Avoid nit-picking and don't sweat the small stuff. No one cares if the carrot sticks are all the same length or whether the wrapping paper design matches precisely at the seams. Don't tie yourself in emotional knots worrying about such things. Share the burdens: Delegate, outsource and streamline. Instead of preparing the whole meal, provide the main course and have each guest bring a "covered dish". Consider using decorative paper napkins and plastic plates and cups instead of china to limit cleanup. Take a time-out: Let's face it, we're not much good to anyone else if we don't take care of ourselves. Set aside at least 15 minutes every day to read, meditate, listen to music or take a walk. This quiet time may become your sanctuary in the chaos of the season.