How to relieve holiday stress

The holiday season is the most wonderful time of the year--and the most taxing. The two-month stress fest that starts with Thanksgiving and ends with the Super Bowl victory touchdown can make the calmest soul cry for a time out from life.

Endless hours of shopping, cooking, gift-wrapping and visiting "everybodies' momma's" house--added to the everyday demands of work and family--can bring on a major bout of seasonal burnout--and leave you open to a host of health problems if you don't find positive ways to relieve the pressure. Survive this hectic season by trying out these proven stress-busters, guaranteed to relieve your frazzled body, mind and spirit.

Happy holidays, and good luck!

* TAKE A TIME OUT. Sometimes you have to literally remove yourself from the source of the stress to avoid road-rage, checkout-line rage and child abuse. Seriously. Pull over to the roadside, leave the crowded store, call in the babysitter to keep from doing something rash. Find a quiet, empty place to calm down. Count slowly to 10, say a prayer, stomp, cry, scream--whatever it takes to get out your frustration.

* DON'T PUT OFF EVERYTHING UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE. Ever heard of Murphy's Law? Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong when you wait until zero hour to complete holiday tasks. The store will be out of stock, you will forget something vital because you're rushing and you will make an irreparable mistake and have no time to fix it. Avoid the last-minute crunch by giving yourself enough time to complete holiday chores. Don't try to do it all either. Ask for help when you need it and don't be afraid to share responsibilities.

* BEAT THE CROWDS. Shop during off-hours (early morning or midday during the week) so you won't have to battle stressful crowds. Or shop during the off season, the weeks following the holidays or even the summer months, to beat the crowds and get the best deals. But if you want to completely avoid holiday headaches, give out gift certificates.

* BLOCK OUT "ME" TIME. Sometimes it really is all about you. Find that calm in the holiday storm by doing something that relaxes and rejuvenates you. Visit a posh day spa for a manicure, pedicure, facial and full-body massage. Light scented candles and soak in a steaming bath. Curl up with your favorite read or play your quiet grooves. See a new movie or rent a classic. Revisit an old hobby or do absolutely nothing.

* GIVE YOURSELF SOMETHING NICE. 'Tis the season to give, but while you're lavishing time and money on others, don't forget about yourself. An occasional indulgence can boost a weary spirit. Treat yourself to a huge bouquet of fragrant flowers, a bottle of your favorite scent, or a new outfit--whatever brings a smile to your face.