Happy Christmas and Merry New Year! I hope it’s a great year-end for you all!

Oddly enough researchers are showing that the holiday season can be a stressful and emotional time.  I thought I’d put together some tips for staying focused and being joyful in this season.  Maybe make your own list for yourself.

Joy in the season:

• Everyday call and/or text someone you know and let them know they mean a lot to you.
• Drop off gift donation to a needy family or homeless shelter
• Write cards to loved ones-Schedule  a “self-care” day: get a massage, take a bubble bath, eat your favorite dessert
• Let stressful things “go”.  Know that everything is not meant to be perfect and go with the flow.
• Forgive someone
• Decorate something
• Walk around a lighted park (with family/friends)
• Have a cozy movie and popcorn night-write up a gratitude list (studies show when you are gracious, you are happy)
• Sing songs (singing (even if off-key), it gladdens the heart