It’s official! The holidays really are here. Halloween has come and gone and now we’re in full holiday swing. We all know that the holidays are supposed to be all about peace, love and joy — but they can also be stressful. Why? Oh, I don’t know, maybe because they just creep up on us when we aren’t necessarily ready for them. Or, because when we actually do find the time to get out to the stores to buy food or gifts, we experience parking rage. Or, maybe because our entire family has to travel (at the busiest travel time of year) to see our extended family, whom we love, but who may not always be the easiest to get along with. So, in order to make your holidays more peaceful and fun, here are 7 simple ways to reduce your stress level during this holiday season (or anytime).

1. Use Imagery

Take a moment to imagine yourself in a beautiful, peaceful place. Maybe it’s a luxurious beach resort that you vacationed at or somewhere that you dream of going to. The key is to momentarily remove yourself from the current anxiety-provoking environment in order to release some of the tension you feel.

2. Breathe

Breathing exercises are a great way to relieve stress anytime and anywhere. They’re easy to learn, easy to use, and can be done as soon as you feel any tension. A simple and effective exercise is to “inhale peace” and “exhale stress”.

3. Light Up (a Candle)

Aromatherapy can help you feel calmer and more at peace. Light an aromatherapy candle or have essential oils available to smell in times of stress and chaos.

4. Move that Body

Get up from sitting, (especially important on or after long flights). Take a short walk. In as little as 5 minutes you will feel like you were able to separate yourself from the current situation, regroup and feel like yourself again.

5. Have a Drink

No, not that kind of drink. To relax, nothing is better than a cup of herbal tea. Chamomile tea is one of my favorites because, in addition to being an aid for stomachaches (which are often stress-related), it is also a great sleep aid.

6. Listen to Music

Music can really transport you. When you are feeling stressed, just tune in to some mellow or soothing music and feel your stress just slip away.

7. Develop a More Positive Attitude

Optimists and positive thinkers experience better health, less stress, and más suerte (more luck) in life. Developing a more positive frame of mind may take a little time and practice, but it can change your life and how you live it. Practice makes perfect and the rewards are well worth the effort.

Maintain Your Sanity, Stay at Peace

Do whatever it takes to maintain your sanity and stay at peace during this, and every, holiday season. Happy Holidays!