The holiday season is in full swing, and we all know how stressful it can be! In addition to extra social obligations and increased financial pressure, the holidays can bring a breakdown of our usual healthy living habits. The season can even leave you feeling lonely or depressed. However, there are ways that you and your family can help to ease the season's stress and make the holidays healthy and happy.

• Don't do too much. Give yourself some time to relax, and share the workload.
• Set priorities. You can't do everything. Say no to some of the demands on your time.
• Simplify. Be less elaborate this year. Relax your housekeeping and holiday preparations.
• Continue to exercise and eat healthy foods. Don't let your regular routine lapse. And, remember that it’s okay to enjoy holiday treats – in moderation.
• Don't be afraid to scale down gift giving. (You'll probably get a lot of support.)
• If your yearly party is too much to handle, put it off until after the holidays.

If you have children, keep in mind that kids are especially vulnerable to commercial stimuli during the holiday season. They need realistic expectations about gifts, an even-paced holiday season and strong, loving family traditions. Here are some ways to make the holidays special for your children:

• Spend more time with your kids. Entertain less and go to fewer parties that exclude children.
• Include your kids in all preparations. Let your children help you decorate and bake, even if it means your creations aren't perfect.
• Teach children the meaning of giving. Adopt a needy family, and have your kids help you make a meal for them. Suggest that your children buy a gift (or donate one of their own) for an underprivileged child.
• Teach your children that gifts don't have to be tangible. Trade intangible gifts with each other, such as helping with homework or washing the dishes. Let them come up with ideas of what they can offer.