Stress free holiday?

There's probably no such thing as a completely stress-free holiday. You know there will be last minute gifts we forgot to pick up, relatives that know how to push our buttons, and other minor catastrophes that we will have to deal with.

But why not schedule some specific time for de-stressing? Go get your calendar, and block off some "me" time.

Here are some ideas I came up with:

1. Get a massage! Studies have shown massage can decrease anxiety, improve sleep quality, and give you more energy.

2. Volunteer. I know it sounds like adding a new commitment might be counter-productive, but doing something nice for someone might make you feel better, on the inside. Why not go to an assisted living facility and see if any one needs help writing out Christmas cards? It shouldn't take too much time, and chances are whoever you help will be very appreciative.

 3. Turn up the stereo. And just for five minutes, dance!

4. Go to a movie, preferably something without a holiday theme.

5. Call up a friend, and vent!  Then of course, you have to let them vent too.

Good luck...and happy holidays!

Kitty Dunn is co-host of Jonathan & Kitty in the Morning on 105.5 Triple M.