Happy Holidays! Now is the time for cookies, family, caroling, snow (in certain parts of the country), and other wonderful, seasonal traditions. As fun as all this sounds, it comes with a certain amount of stress as well. For some of us, myself included, we just finished finals and are now home (or elsewhere) for the holidays expecting some well-deserved R and R. In my case, however, the stress felt during finals are now felt toward the winter activities listed above (and many, many more, obviously).

The Christmas season is my favorite out of the entire year, regardless of the stresses it entails. I'm a person who thrives under constant pressure, so the "go, go, go" attitude of the holidays places me right in my element. Even so, I sometimes crumble under the pressure. To avoid these instances where I want to crawl under my covers and emerge only after the new year, I have a few stress relief tactics that I employ and would love to share with my fellow stress mess-ers. Enjoy!

1. Cry

As anti-climatic as it sounds, a good solid cry sometimes really helps the stress melt away. Even though, all that nervousness and emotion that you've been bottling up to get the job done just bursts out in a very messy explosion of snot and salty tears, you just feel like a weight has been lifted from your shoulders.

2. Watch cute animal videos

Go to YouTube, literally search that phrase, and watch one, maybe two videos. I love watching puppies, but your adorable animal preference may be different.

3. Arts and Crafts

Whether it's whittling, painting birdhouses, coloring in those fancy-pantsy coloring books, or knitting (my chosen pastime), having something else to focus on other than your ever-growing to-do list works wonders on your stress level. Also, it's a win-win situation, as you're less stressed and have an extra gift!

4. Exercise

I'm a runner at heart, so a good solid jog helps my freak-out factor decrease. If you're not a natural athlete, a couple jumping jacks or a run up and down a flight of stairs gives the same effect. It also means you definitely deserve that chocolate bar you were going to stress eat.

5. Scream Therapy

As weird as this sounds, sometimes all a situation needs is a good yell. I would advise you to do this into a pillow or in an abandoned building, if either are on-hand, because lurking relations might think you've finally gone off the deep end (This can be combined with number four if you're feeling particularly stressed. Think Footloose, when Kevin Bacon does his awesome-sauce dance scene).

6. Yoga

I've only tried this a few times, because I rarely have the time and patience to stand still for so long. However, the times I have attempted it, it's made me feel better, so go for it if it sounds like your cup of coffee.

7. Random Housework

I know it sounds super weird, because it's still technically work, and no one likes doing it. However, menial tasks like cleaning up clutter or vacuuming take your mind off of whatever subject is stressing you out. I personally like washing dishes in this instance (not any other time, of course).

There you have it. Good luck this holiday, and remember to channel your inner, Kevin Bacon-like calm. The new year is right around the corner.