The holidays seems to go two ways for most people... either really stressful and it is a bad time for most people. Or it goes very well and it is joyous. This is the time of year, it is important to keep the balance. Find the joy in looking at lights, talking with the family or going to a holiday service. The presents are not everything, although many people feel pressured to find a way to deliver them. Accepting and not accepting what you can do is the main challenge.

However, there are several other reasons people tend to not have a good time. The malls are terrible, online shipping isn't always dependable, work troubles, getting days off, struggling to get family around, etc. Some people love the over-crowded malls and diving into people everywhere, especially if it isn't something they get to see a lot. All that aside, no matter what your holiday struggle is this year, there are tips for ways to remain in a content state.

Tricks to stay calm this holiday season:

1. Do not procrastinate

Try to plan accordingly and not wait until the last minute. It seems to always be a goal, yes. We need to step outside of the goal and just go and do what we need to do. It will make any shopping, cooking or visiting more enjoyable.

2. Blue light

Really, a blue light is so calming. Invest in one. A blue light with zen music whenever you start to feel yourself get worked up will truly help, in most cases. A simple walk could do the trick.. truly, fresh air does wonders for the mind... and lungs.

3. No pressure

Seriously, do not put any pressure on anything. Do what you can, tell people you are trying to make everyone happy. Smile, say what they want to hear and move on with what you need to do. Try as you might, you cannot please everyone, maybe not even yourself. Accept it and go about your day. Tell everyone all you can do is try. If you are the one putting pressure on yourself, happy holidays to you, don't let yourself do it.

4. Christmas movies

Put on some Christmas movies, open candy, a bottle of wine, whatever. Not all holiday movies are relaxing, just like not all holiday music is relaxing. Find the sweet ones. It brings joy.

5. Rest up

Nothing like napping whenever you feel like flipping out. Doing anything spa like, or whatever releases tension for you. Hangout with your pet. Talk. Rest, talk to friends, and stay away from technology.