The busy season is upon us and the stress that accompanies it can really steal the joy from the season. For me, boundaries are hard to keep. I am a people pleaser by nature and I want to do all I can to make great memories for my kids and see all the people who are dear to me. However, I tend to stretch myself thin, stress myself out and look forward to the holidays being over. This isn’t healthy.

So then I got to thinking, what are some ways to gracefully handle the coming weeks and enjoy every day of the season? Here is what I came up with.

1. Know Your Schedule. Knowing your schedule keeps us from double or triple booking yourself. So taking the extra step to write it down (or plug it into the calendar on our phone) and checking it before committing to anything will not only save you stress, it prevents disappointing someone we care about.

2. Prioritize. You can’t do it all. You don’t have to attend every holiday party, do every tradition, or elaborately decorate every nook and cranny (unless you want to). Know your limits, pick what is the absolute most important to you and your family and stick to that list.

3. Keep Up On Your Health. Getting sick is going to happen if you neglect your health. Eating every single dessert that is offered your way, neglecting your workouts, not drinking enough or taking your supplements will lead to fatigue, a weakened immune system and then, getting knocked on your back for 2 weeks with the flu. It doesn’t have to be this way! Schedule your workouts, drink your warm lemon water or herbal teas, get sunshine and take your D3 Supplement, eat the veggies, keep sweets only to the parties and not in a bowl or on the counter staring at you, tempting you, suppressing your immune system daily.

4. Schedule Down Time. This is one I struggle with during all times of the year. During the holidays we have less “me” time and it causes added stress. Make sure you take time to schedule in a christmas movie, get out and get some alone time, and do nothing. It is good for the soul.

5. Do What Brings You Joy. It is easy for us to want to make every one else happy. We deserve to have joy during the season too. We cannot serve from an empty vessel. An empty vessel also leads to feelings of anger, resentment, guilt and shame. The easiest way to stay happy is to make sure you nourish your soul so you can give to those you love.

6. Scent Therapy. There really is something to aromatherapy. Scent and emotions are tied together strongly. So take advantage of your favorite winter time candle, stove top scent, or oil in the diffuser, breathe deeply, close your eyes, and let the memories of love, laughter and joy wash over you.

I hope you have a wonderful, joy filled and stress free holiday!