Banish the Holiday Blues

This time of year it is easy to get overwhelmed, over-anxious, and over stimulated.  With all of the gift wrapping, tree trimming, light viewing and party hopping, it can be difficult to find a moment to really revel in that holiday spirit. Here are a few of our favorite ways to chase away those holiday blues, and really enjoy the season:

Globe Trotting

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No better way to decompress than to skip town and holiday obligations all together. Save that cash that might have gone to fancy gifts and hosting a holiday shindig and book a weekend (or longer) getaway. Groupon and other deal sites often offer great deals on last minute plans to such places as the Riviera Maya in Mexico, the Virgin Islands, and California wine country. Or just book yourself into a plush local hotel for a night and imagine you’re farther afield.   

Take a Hike

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We don’t always think of getting outdoors in the wintertime, but hiking somewhere scenic in the brisk air at twilight is one of life’s simple pleasures. Bundle up, load up your iPod with some of your favorite holiday tunes, and hit the local trail. Or just hit up your local tree farm, wander the rows for a bit, and revel in that iconic Christmas scent. 

Movie Night

Plan a special evening for only your nearest and dearest, and one that everyone can attend in their pajamas. Cue up everyone’s favorite holiday film—we like “Elf” since we’ll never be able to get enough Will Ferrell in our lives—pop some popcorn, maybe serve some Christmas cookies and milk, and snuggle in for a fun night at home. 

Plan Ahead

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Mentally skip a few months ahead, and start planning for 2013. Bust out a fresh calendar or planner (we love the Life Planners from ErinCondren.com), and start planning out how great 2013 is going to be. Book a summer vacation, start setting lunch dates and choose a date to host a non-holiday get together for your closest pals. 

Treat Yourself

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Your favorite shops, both of the online and brick-and-mortar sort, are full of deals and sales this time of year. In an effort to entice your gift giving dollars, cries of 20% off, BOGO and “gift with purchase” are not uncommon. Have your eye on something special that Santa may or may not know about? Have at it. Take a moment to reward yourself.