By Jennifer Werner, Student at Radford University

With the holiday season, comes a ton of stress. Not only is December one of the most expensive months of the year … but stores are packed and winter weather creates chaos at airports nationwide.

Of course, there are also the family gatherings and holiday parties to attend, food to prepare and new resolutions to be made.

It is easy to let all of the holiday stress wear you down, so take a few minutes to try out these few techniques to help you relax and clear your mind.

• Take 30 minutes out of your day just for you! Feeling overwhelmed? It’s OK: We all have those days. Make a hot cup of tea or coffee and just take 30 minutes to sit down and relax. This is the perfect time to catch up on the latest episode of your favorite TV show or to start a new book.
   
• Meditate! Meditation has been around for thousands of years and can help calm your nerves and relieve that extra anxiety. Find a quiet place where you feel at peace. Listen to soothing music or light a few candles. Try sitting on a yoga mat or comfortable cushion and let your mind unwind.
   
• Exercise! Not only will you be able to burn off some of those extra holiday calories, but you can also increase your endorphins so that you have more energy to take on the rest of your daily tasks.

  Don’t want to go to the gym? Don’t worry; taking a walk around your neighborhood or a quick jog can be just as beneficial.
   

• Laugh a little. Life’s too short to be serious all of the time! Take a few minutes to find the humor in life. After all, isn’t laughter supposed to be the best medicine out there?
   
• Maintain a healthy and balanced diet. We all love those holiday treats that seem to make their way onto the table around the end of the year, but all of the sweets can make you feel lethargic and add on to your stress. By switching out the treats for a few nuts, whole grains, or fresh fruits and vegetables, you can help reduce the stress in your life.
   
• It's aromatherapy time! Indulge in a nice aromatherapy body wash or bubble bath. The aromatic smells of citrus and ginger, lavender or eucalyptus can help awaken your senses and calm your nerves. If working on schoolwork, light an aromatherapy candle to help relieve some stress. Bath & Body Works has a great selection of aromatherapy products.
   
• Try to get at least seven hours of sleep. A lack of sleep can make you stressed out, look tired and feel horrible. Enjoy your REM cycle and wake up feeling refreshed!

This new year, make a resolution to conquer your stress and show it that you’re the one in control! Happy holidays!

Image courtesy of Ambro / FreeDigitalPhotos.net