De-Stressing Christmas

I don't know how many people I've heard say that they're over Christmas before it even gets here. And the numbers seem to be increasing every year. To be honest, I agree with them in many ways.
Just the thought of going to the supermarket in the week leading up to the big day can put the blood pressure in a zone it shouldn't be in. And if you're the type of person who likes to park as close as possible to the shop you want to go to, then I suggest you buy shares in an oil company before you venture out. Or convince yourself that walking is good for you.

Sooooo..., How do we de-stress Christmas. A few of points come to mind.

1. Planning. Sit down at least month before Christmas and make a list of what you need to buy in the way of food and gifts etc.
2. Budget. Set a budget for Christmas and the holidays and stick to it.
3. Make it Easy. If you home is where the annual invasion of relatives is happening, make the day easy on yourself. Instead of slaving over a hot stove for hours tell everyone that it's a pot-luck Christmas lunch (or dinner) and get everyone to bring something. Your job is made easier and there'll be a good variety of food for everyone.
4. The Main Event. Take time to remember what Christmas is all about. If you're a Christian don't let the chaos of the day distract you from the fact that it's Jesus birthday. And if you're not a Christian then take time to consider that without the teachings of Jesus and the Bible we wouldn't have western society as we know it today and a lot of our laws wouldn't exist.. The fact is that Jesus actually lived in Israel 2000 years ago and his wisdom and teaching still impacts the world today.

The bottom line is that much of the Christmas stress we encounter is because the festive season has been taken over by the business world and it's profit driven agenda.

The opposing view is what the Bible says. It says that we can serve God or money, not both.

By following Jesus and His God focused simple lifestyle and not being sucked into an over-indulgent expensive form of Christmas we'll be well on our way to de-stressing Christmas.

Merry Christmas 

If you have any de-stressing ideas please feel free to add your comments.