Best Gift? Try Less Stress

Between the end-of-year deadlines, holiday shopping budgets, crowded stores and family feuds, stress is pretty much a given this time of the year. So how can you minimize the impact of stress? Here are few simple things you can do to lower the amount of stress this holiday season on your body.

The number 1 thing you can do to de-stress is take a few minutes to just breathe, said Paela Reilly, a natural health professional and life coach.

Exercise is also a great stress-reducer because it increases production of endorphins, the "feel-good" neurotransmitters.

Nutrition and supplements can also help manage stress. Sugary and precessed foods will add even more stress to your already taxed nervous system. For tension headaches and muscle aches, Reilly suggests a glass of milk. As stress piles up this holiday season, don't forget to take a few minutes for yourself each day. A little me time can help you to avoid and reduce holiday stress and those sleepless nights.