From Frazzled to Fabulous

By Candy

If it’s the most wonderful time of the year, why are you suddenly feeling the urge to scream into your feather pillow?

Exams, holiday parties, trying to find the perfect gift for your not-quite-a-boyfriend-but-definitely-more-than-a-friend boy: It’s all stressing you out. This year, let’s keep the anxiety to a minimum so that you can feel the good old holiday spirit.

Take a hike: Any type of exercise, from running to that Budokon class at the gym to a brisk walk through campus, will help you blow off steam. Working out is one of the best forms of stress-relief. So get moving!

Enjoy the great outdoors: Start a snowball fight with that cute guy who lives across the hall. You’ll get some fresh air as well as a healthy dose of the Vitamin D from the sun. This super nutrient boosts your immune system and keeps those wintertime runny noses at bay.

Unleash your inner “om”: If the mention of meditation evokes a spontaneous eye-roll, you might want to rethink your preconceived notions. You don’t have to chant or dress like Mr. Miyagi from “The Karate Kid.” Sit in a comfortable position and focus on your breathing. Only 10 short minutes of meditation can make you feel revitalized.

Let laughter medicate you: Sometimes nothing is more satisfying than a funny holiday flick with your girls. Hit the theater to see “The Holiday.” Or pick up “Love Actually” at your local Blockbuster. If the laughter doesn’t get your heart pumping, Hugh Grant probably will.

Be someone’s Santa Claus: Help a family in need. Short on cash? Volunteer at your local shelter or soup kitchen. Short on time? Log on to www.target.com/stjudewishlist to order a Christmas gift for a patient at St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Short on time and money? Log on to www.makeachildsmile.com to send a card to a child with a life-threatening illness. You’ll get a great karmic boost.