Overcome holiday stress

By Amy McRee, NEWS 9

It's known as the most 'wonderful time of the year, but let's face it Christmas is stressful.

From buying gifts, to family gatherings and jam-packed schedules, it's easy to see how people get stressed during the holiday season.

"During the holidays, there are a lot of people around that we try to keep happy and we just overextend ourselves," said Dr. Mary Ann Bauman.

Dr. Bauman knows about holiday stress all too well; she's a mother, a doctor, and author. Her book "Fight Fatigue" gives both women and men the tools they need to maximize their energy--something we all could all use this time of year.

"We have to learn how to set appropriate boundaries. We have to learn how to say 'No' and you don't always have to have a super reason to say no. You may just say 'No, that's not something I wish to do,'" said Dr. Bauman.

Dr. Bauman said that's particularly difficult this time of year. Many of us are being pulled from all sides, so it's important to make your own needs known.

"I use to send out Christmas cards and that was a real chore for me. So I decided a number of years ago that I was going to stop doing that," said Dr. Bauman.

A good place to start is:

1.  Start looking at your commitments and prioritize them.

2.  Try cutting out something this year that has caused you a lot of stress and commitments that frankly, you can't afford.

3. Don't forget to exercise.

"I really think if you look at the things that you have to do during the holidays verses the things you think you have to do there's a real difference in that list," said the doctor. "And you know what they say about Santa, checking it twice, making that list. you have to make that list you have to x some stuff out, i'm not saying it's going to be super easy the first time you do it but the rewards are worth it..

In the end though, you're sure to get enjoyment. Instead of being exhausted on Christmas day, you can actually enjoy it--something that gets lost in all of your preparations.