Growing up, my mom worked very hard to make the holidays super special.

There would be mountains of presents under the tree, even when we were strapped for cash. She wanted to make sure I felt loved and that I had everything that everyone else my age was raving about (including a Ferbie, which I wanted so badly, but threw away the same day I got it because holy crap it was annoying! Anyone else remember those things?)

I maybe have a handful of things that I got back then. What I love most about this Christmases are the memories. I remember sitting in the living room with my grandma as we waited for Mom to get showered and awake. She would let me open my stocking first, so I didn’t get completely mental! I still laugh thinking about how Mackenzie, our dog, literally started opening all my presents Christmas Eve (I was happy about this, Mom…not so much!).

It’s true that this time of year can be stressful, but only if you make it so. Don’t worry so much about things. The story of how you dropped the turkey will be remembered far longer than how the cranberry sauce tasted.

Relax and just let things happen. Relax and make memories. Relax and have fun!

Do yoga and be happy!

Here is a routine to help you unwind and find ease during the holidays:

Here’s the link:

I know that the holidays are always a little bittersweet. Everywhere we look, whether in the store, on the TV, or on the radio, we’re told that this is the greatest time of year! With that comes a lot of responsibility and stress, primarily for parents who are trying to give their children the best of everything whether that’s presents under the tree, a wonderful feast, or just a day where the magic of Santa is real and there’s no fighting.

For some people, this is the only time of year that the whole family gets together. Maybe you’re hosting the big dinner or perhaps you’re going to visit the in-laws.

You want everyone to enjoy their holiday, but sometimes it’s easy to forget that it’s your holiday too!

Sometimes we say yes too many times and we’re running ourselves too thin, but I promise that it only takes a moment to turn your day around. Take a moment and breathe. Sip on some tea. Watch the snow.

Presents are nice, but presence is better. Everyone loves toys and books, but what really sticks are the memories. Make the most of the holidays. Have fun!

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Author: Stacy Porter

Editor: Renée Picard

Photo: courtesy of the author