Winter blues aside, the holiday season is stressful for just about anyone, emotionally, financially, and physically. There are thoughtful gifts to think of, let alone purchase, extra work to cram in, if you’re taking a few days off, and travel delays left and right. Even if stress doesn’t sour your holiday spirit, it will increase your risk of getting sick (especially if you’re traveling from toasty Los Angeles to the frigid Midwest, like I am) – and nobody needs that. The holidays are meant to be relaxing and fun, so here are a few tips for staying stress-free and making the most of the season.

Need a moment alone?
We all know you can have too much of a good thing, and that includes time with extended family. Between group meals and catching up, it’s hard to find time for yourself, and it’s not like you can just say, “Hey, we need to not be talking to each other right now,” right? Well, wrong…kind of. If you need a break from the group, a quick meditation is not only an indisputable excuse, but a great way to refresh and recharge. You’d be surprised how much 20 minutes can improve your mood, increase your patience, and boost your energy. And it still works if someone says, “Hey! I’ll come too!”

Stuck at the airport?
Instead of cursing the weather and the 8 names before yours on the standby list, accept what you can’t change and relish the unique, airport version of having no responsibilities other than sitting and waiting. Read a book, savour a latte, people watch, play candy crush till your phone dies, or cram all your luggage underneath your seat and meditate. Do them all! You probably have time! And then maybe you’ll arrive at your destination rested and stress-free, with a smile on your face.

Can’t think of a meaningful gift?
Give a gift that will last a lifetime – inner peace, better health, and greater happiness! Has a sibling been talking about learning the Transcendental Meditation technique for years but never gotten around to it? We’ve created a beautifully designed TM gift certificate that you can personalize and print yourself. Check it out!

You can read more about the TM technique for reducing stress and anxiety here.