Effectively handling stress can mean a happier holiday season

The holidays can be a busy – and stressful – time of year. From juggling work and family obligations to making travel plans, things get hectic. Make sure you take time for yourself and focus on staying mentally healthy during this busy season. Try practicing some of these tips to keep your peace of mind:

• Take care of yourself. You have obligations, but at times you have to say "No." Don't take on more than you know you can handle.

• Eat well. Holiday food can do a number on your waistline. A great tip is to eat a small meal or snack before you go to a party. Try a Kashi GOLEAN Chewy bar or a bowl of Kellogg's Low Fat Granola cereal with some skim milk. Your goal is to eat things with whole grains or protein – which take the edge off your appetite – so you can be more selective at the party.

  Check out Stress Management on WebMD WebMD Health Manager

• Exercise! Taking a little extra time each day to eat properly and exercise will actually help reduce stress, maintain weight, and give you the extra energy to meet the demands of the holidays.

• Accept imperfection. No one's perfect. Let go of the idea of planning a "perfect holiday." Do your best, but learn to relax a little. Deep breathing, meditation and muscle relaxation will calm your nerves and lower your heart rate. Besides, enjoying time with friends and family is what the holiday season is all about!

• Be creative. Studies show that listening to music, writing and painting can help beat stress.

• Sleep on it. A good night's rest can do wonders. Make sure you're catching enough Z's to keep you calm and collected throughout the hustle and bustle.

Take care of yourself and plan the holiday you really want. Don't overextend yourself to the point that a pleasure turns into a burden. Set limits in terms of your commitments so that you have time for rest, exercise, good nutrition and quality time with loved ones.