Gordon Clay here. Christmas is just one of many spiritual holidays this month. Here are some tips to make it through the rest of the year.

• Keep in mind that the holiday season may cause you to feel symptoms of stress (highways - lines - the rush) - having some awareness will help reduce it.
• Remember that the holiday season will soon be over and the passage of time itself will help you get back to your usual self.
• Do not overlook your own needs during the holiday season even though you are sensitive to the needs of others. Take care of yourself!
• Do not put expectations on those around you to please you as you want to be pleased. Peace of mind will come when you enjoy others as they are and do not place your expectations on them.
• Observe your own thoughts and feelings and remember that any shift from your normal self may be caused by the holiday season.
• Maintain a healthy diet. Cut back on other meals when you are going to have a big holiday dinner.
• Alcohol is a depressant and contributes to stress. It is also part of our societal conditioning. Use it in moderation, if at all. If you plan to drink, also plan for a ride home or take a cab.
• Contact family and friends and include them in your plans, if you can. Use the phone to contact far away people. Check on the best times to call for the lowest rates and not get them out of bed, either.
• To avoid loneliness, plan to be with friends or other people that may become friends.
• Use your usual stress management techniques. Do deep relaxation exercises several times during the day.
• Expose yourself to humor and laugh.

And, most of all, have a Happy Holiday.