Christmas is magical, isn’t it? The sparkle, the fun, the festivities. Who could ask for more?
You don’t seem to agree 
And you are not alone. For many people, Christmas is one of the most stressful times of the year. Here are some tips on how to remove some of that stress.
Many people stress out over the cost of Christmas. Others stress out because they fall for all the ‘make believe’ Christmases that they see on TV and in the movies, try to emulate that and fail. Whatever the reason, you can reduce your stress levels.
Firstly, start your Christmas planning early. September is not too soon but October is just fine. The more advance preparation you do, the less stressed you will feel nearer the time.
Organise your Christmas card list on your computer. This way, you do the work once and then only have to make minor adjustments in future years.
As for your present list, write it down. Don’t try to carry all the information in your head. Put the name of the person and the present that you want to get. Cross the name off when you have the present. Simple but highly effective.
Once you have the present, wrap it straight away. Wrapping can be a stressful experience in the last days before Christmas. Do it gradually and remove the stress. One tip is to use ‘wrapping bags’ instead of paper and scotch tape. remove the pain and you remove the strain. make sure you label the presents properly or you will forget what is what. Store them safe from the prying eyes of children …. and the odd adult.
Christmas shopping is amazing fun for some people. But others hate the crowds, the noise and the stress of it all. These days, online shopping means that you don’t have to go out there. Do it all from home. But do it early. Last minute deliveries will just add to your stress.
Although it may not seem to be in the spirit of Christmas, gift certificates can be a great Christmas present. Which would you rather have, a piece of clothing that fits badly and looks awful or a gift certificate from Amazon? Well most people you will be giving to will feel exactly the same
If you are in a couple or a family, spread the Christmas tasks fairly between you. It is extraordinary how some people, especially women, seem to take on all the responsibility. That is not right. Share things around.
Get your Christmas food list made up well in advance. Buy as much food as early as you can and only get the perishable items at the last moment. And share the shopping duties between you.bPlan all the meals for the Christmas period. Know what you are going to be having and who is going to prepare it.
With a bit of forethought, much of the Christmas stress can melt away. You might even find yourself having fun.