Last week I wrote about taking naps as a good way care for yourself.  As we now head into the heart of the holiday season, it's especially important to take good care of yourself.

Remember, if you're all stressed out and tense, you won't be much good to anybody, including yourself.

One important tip in this regard is to remember that it's OK to say "no" to some of the demands you may be feeling.  Perhaps you don't really need to spend a lot of money on a gift for someone you feel obligated to.  Or maybe you don't really have to attend every holiday party to which you are invited.   Or possibly you could say no to something else, even if you feel that you "should" say yes.

In this same spirit, it's also helpful to take time to look inward, especially at this darkest time of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

Our recent Top Ten Relaxation Tips for Reducing Holiday Stress included this tip:

Reflect on the deeper meaning and spirit of the holidays for you personally, for your family, and for humanity and the world.
So much of the holidays center on outward, physical, sensory experience -- the brightness of the Christmas lights, the frosty air on our cheeks, the smell of roasting foods, the sound of caroling voices. Partly because of this, the deeper, more spiritual meaning of the holiday season can become lost in the shuffle. By pausing to reflect on this meaning, you can gain a better perspective on how to organize your holiday priorities. 

Best wishes for a joyous and peaceful holiday season.