Communing with nature is an integral part of our well-being that is all but taken away from people in colder climates during the winter months. And the lack of natural sunlight is a well-known depressant. So take your dog for a walk instead of taking a coffee break, prune your evergreens and save yourself a trip to the store for greenery for the house, or bundle everybody up for a trip to the zoo instead or the museum. It'll do you a world of good. Well, just the opposite can be true.
Social support is a strong buffer against stress and even appears to strengthen the immune system.
Keep things simple and allow yourself to enjoy the company of others. If you find yourself turning down invitations because you're worried about what to wear, bake or buy, then think again. Don't let the small stuff be a deterrent to appreciating the company of your family and friends. Go and enjoy - you'll be glad you did. While we can't control all the additional stress that comes with the holidays, we can control the way we react to it.