yule be less stressed...

Christmas is-a coming and we're all a-getting stressed...Even though it's supposed to be FUN! There's decorations to put up (and where is the bulb that's blown on the Christmas tree lights, I can never find it) food to be bought, presents to be sourced and all by 25 December.

Not to mention the perennial arguments about who stays for Christmas, who's family to see on which day, and even the minor stresses of the argument about TV remote ownership...

Stress and Anxiety Expert, Charles Linden knows only too well how stressed we can get at this time of the year - and in fact all year round. His new book 'Stress Free in 30 Days' could be a welcome addition to many of our Christmas lists this year...

His five top tips for living stress-free are:

1. Get your Finances Organised
“Financial worry is one of the biggest causes of stress in our society today. Even though it sounds scary, you must tackle finances head on. Budgeting and sticking to it can seriously reduce your money worries and stress levels”

We all experience money related problems at one time or another and its often the most common cause of stress.  The best solution to your money worries is to take a structured approach to money management.  With just a little more thought about your spending you can dramatically reduce financial worries with very little impact on your day to day life.  If you’re not sure about what to do with your money speak to a professional financial advisor they can point you in the right direction and help you get your finances in order.  

2. Treat Yourself
“Best stress buster – spend a little time on your appearance – A quick salon blow dry or a DIY face pack at home can be uplifting”

No matter how busy you are don’t let your beauty and grooming regime go out the window!  Otherwise you’ll look and feel run down.  A good idea is to book regular haircut’s (approx every six to eight weeks) accompanied by a relaxing treatment like a massage, facial or manicure.  A little ‘Me Time’ will work wonders for your stress levels - when you look good you’ll feel great too!  But if you’re strapped for cash try creating a ‘Spa at home’ in your bathroom

3. Avoid Power-Sappers!
“You know those people that if you spend even a few minutes in their company you feel depressed and down, well I call them Power-Sappers, Avoid them at all costs!”

Whether with friends, family or your partner, relationships can be hard work!  The more hard work they are the more stressful they will be and you may find are more hassle than they are worth.  Choose relationships that increase your energy levels and be with people that make you feel good and positive.  You may encounter people who are known as ‘power sappers’ who somehow leave you feeling depleted, sad, and de-energised.  These will be the hard working relationships that will make you feel stresses.  Try to avoid these types of people and stick to positive, uplifting ones.

4. Get a Hobby!
“Hobbyists are amongst the least stressed people I know. Concentrating on something that you are passionate about for even an hour a week gives you a break from worry and stress”

5. Be nice to yourself!
“Don’t concentrate on what you are bad at (we are all bad at certain things) concentrate on what you are good at and give yourself a mental pat on the back regularly for them!”

You can also buy the book - and enter the Relentlessly Positive competition to win a Relaxation for Living DVD!