Yeah, right. Stress management in the middle of the holidays? When could you need it more? This is the time when we do too much, aspire to do too much, and get sick from overdoing.

Every day is a new opportunity to treat ourselves well. Think about that seriously. What you did yesterday is gone. Who knows what tomorrow will really bring. Take care of yourself today. Realize that you are not made up of specific parts. Your body is a whole. Mind, body, soul is all one entity. You can break it down into parts after you comprehend this.

No matter what your career, or what your day entails, we all need to recharge and re-focus at some point during the day. For me personally, I can guarantee a dip in my energy at 11 am and at 4 pm. If possible try to have a light meal at that point or if that is not available, take a quick stroll around the block. I often grab my dogs and walk. As I walk a ponder the existence of the people in those houses. I always return glad that I have created the world that I have around me and grateful for the gifts I have been given.

While this is all fine and dandy, this really isn�t available during the holiday season. I have compiled a few "quickie" ideas for you that will work while on your way to yet another holiday party, flying to timbuktu for Christmas, or just finding yourself in an unpleasant situation.

Think of 5 things you are grateful for. This sounds silly, but you will find yourself, everyday, thinking of these things. Perhaps it is how the birds sing to wake you up each morning. Perhaps you are thankful you have good eyes to see. Or that you are thankful that you didn�t have to arrange this party you are attending! Everyday, write/email/call someone or journal this to remember your day.

Meditate on your goals. Every year on New Year�s Day, I make a list of things to accomplish. Find yourself in a sticky/stressful situation? Think about that vegetable garden you wanted to plant and plan how you are going to do it. Sometimes diversion is the best way to clear your mind to think an issue to clarity.

Take a ten minute walk. Excuse yourself to the bathroom or some other place. Just walk. You�ll be amazed how it will change your consciousness.

Do some self massage techniques. Rub your head, shoulders, and neck. This is an instant stressbuster.

Always keep a few vials of essential oil in your purse, car, office, near the bed. Sniff at the appropriate time. If you are able to keep a small diffuser in your office, do so. A tiny bit of non-synthetic fragrance will boost or calm you depending on the oils picked.

Take three really deep breaths. I once read an article that stated cigarette smokers were just as addicted to the really deep breaths taken to inhale the tobacco as the tobacco itself. Interesting to think about, yes?

Try these things to keep you going through the holidays. I am positive you will find them addicting and notice your life changing as you take better care of yourself. Not only will they help you through this busy season, you�ll find they are beneficial throughout the year. See you in the new millenium!