Ahh, the holidays. Too much to do and too little time. Stress piles up quickly, especially when expectations run high and schedules feel crowded. Studies suggest that many common illnesses are connected to stress, reminding us that how we live our days matters.

So pause for a moment. This is a good day for a few gentle stress-busters.

Take a deep breath. Prioritize what truly matters. Make time for fun. Keep expectations realistic. Pamper yourself. Read a good book. Take a warm bath.

“There must be quite a few things that a hot bath won’t cure,” observed poet Sylvia Plath, “but I don’t know many of them.”

Use your resources. Make lists. Smile. Cut back on caffeine. Avoid excessive alcohol. Encourage others. Call a friend.

“It’s not stress that kills us,” noted Dr. Hans Selye, “it’s our reaction to it.”

Buy roses, then stop to smell them. Learn to say no. Take a walk. Reduce sugar. Create small pauses in your day.

As Ashleigh Brilliant once quipped, “Try to relax and enjoy the crisis.”

Pace yourself. Delegate. Exercise. Accept and give hugs. Sing a song. Believe in others. Stretch. Spend time with positive people. Take a break. Visualize a peaceful place. Pray. Avoid clutter. Create a golden moment. Dance.

“Have fun,” advised writer Jean Westcott. “Misery is optional.”

And one more gentle reminder, especially during busy seasons. Visit Daily Celebrations often. Share it with others. Let yourself return to calm, one breath at a time.