Dads, beat the Christmas Stress!

Just in case you haven't noticed it's that time of the year again. And if you have not already sorted your Christmas purchases out yet, you will be feeling a pinch of stress.

If not coming from your Childrens relentless requests that sound like "I WANT, I WANT, I WANT IT ALL!" than from your wife "What do you think we should get for the kids this year?". Chances are, the Christmas stress has already taken root, and is feeding upon your vulnerability. No matter how much you love Christmas, stress and anxiety are the other side of this season of cheer.

Is there a way out?

Yes there is. Dads can beat Christmas Stress. All it takes is a little planning, and being proactive. Here are a few simple tips to help you keep unwanted stress at bay during Christmas:

Lists: A good old Christmas shopping list is a surefire way to keep a tab on what is necessary and what is unwanted expense.

One-stop-shopping: Try to buy all Christmas gifts and presents on a single day, or group your shopping needs according to categories (for example, Toys for Kids, Gift for the Missus, Gifts for the inlaws... etc.). This way you will cover most items without having to hop from store to store.

Time yourself: Allot the time you are likely to spend at a store. This will help you organise your shopping itinerary.

Relax: Try simple breathing exercises when waiting—in a line or at a restaurant. Deep breathing helps lower stress related hormones and lets you ease tension.

These are simple things that one often ignores in a hurry. So, get your Christmas list sorted, have all the fun this Christmas, and beat the Christmas Stress.

-Eric