We talk about this every December. Holiday induced stress IS a real thing. The shopping & wrapping, the cooking, the making our place perfect for guests - who stay too long, and on and on. But what about us?

For myself, I make sure I get at least 10 to 15 minutes before staring my day to meditate and make myself 'present.' Others prefer to do this at day's end. And, some prefer mid-day. The important part is setting that time aside.

If you need a bit of inspiration, you can check out a couple of ideas I find helpful, or blaze your own trail. But again, just take a few minutes each day for self-care.

When my kids were little I would do a special holiday styled bathroom project. Pretty candles, some flowers, a peaceful little space. A heavy bath towel on the edge of the tub can be comfy to sit on. At least once a day I would escape there, being sure to lock the door. No one really bothers you - because... you're in the bathroom. I called it my mommy time out. Just removing myself from all the action for a bit helped wonders with my attitude.

There were also times I would get up before everyone, or sneak downstairs after they all went to sleep. I'd turn the tree lights on, light some pine incense and just breathe. The peacefulness of those times...ahhhh. The world is quiet and calm. I had a little rose quartz heart that I would imagine all the calming energy flowing into, and I would always tell myself, carry this 'peace' with you all the time. And, if things got a bit wound up during the day I would hold that little heart to mine drawing back all that peace into me.

Need an energy boost? Citrine is an awesome one for that - with the added benefit of disolving negativity.

Want to dissolve inner tension? Blue Lace Agate is a great one for clearing tensions and also helps us resist those external influences on our peaceful state of mind.

Want to find inner peace? Using an Amethyst or Selenite is an excellent way to help quiet your mind and enjoy the peace of the season.

However and whatever you choose, just do it! It may seem weird at first to take those few minutes for yourself with so much to do. Eventually, you won't give it a second thought. And those few minutes? They help you make it through your busy days with serenity and grace. So, invest in yourself and your peace of mind.