The holiday season has arrived. It is my favourite time of year. Not only because I get to celebrate a birthday but also because I love that it encourages kindness and giving. However, this can be a stressful time for many of us. With the shopping, crowds, endless social obligations, holiday parties. etc. It is hard to stay healthy, happy and full of energy.

So how do you that in the midst of all the hustle and bustle?

Here is a list of a few things that I do during this time of year.

Create a budget and stick to it

If you are anything like me you love to give gifts to people. I love to pick out something that I know would put a smile on the receivers face. It gives me such pleasure to make people happy. In doing so, I have to remember that does not mean I should go in debt doing so. Make sure that you are using cash as much as possible so in January you don't end up with a huge credit card bill that you can't handle. You can stay happy when you are not putting yourself in major debt.

Don't over schedule

I find it can be hard to say "NO" to people at this time of year. As much as I would like to go to everything, I just can't. It becomes stressful and unhealthy if you try to do more than you can handle and it takes the fun out it. So say yes to a few things and then kindly decline anything that puts you over your time frame.

Enjoy but don't overindulge

I love sweets and this is a time where there is an abundance of them. Everyday at work there seems to be a table full of delightful treats just calling my name. All the social engagements that I attend also have an array of things to indulge in. My rule of thumb, See if you can take one and then walk away from the rest of the goodies so you are not tempted to take a handful. I am not much of a drinker but some of us can get a bit carried away during the holiday season. Moderation is key because going overboard affects your health and can suck the energy right out of you.

Be present

I have a hard time with this one. My mind is always racing with so many thoughts. From the past to the future. Staying in the now is an effort indeed. It is important all the time to try and be present. I find myself getting together with family and friends whom I have not seen in a long time. So why not be as fully in the moment as possible. Who knows when I will see them again.

Remember the reason for the season

This is by far for me the most important one. I remember that Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The real spirit of Christmas is giving, loving, caring and serving others. Jesus was our gift from God the father and when I remember that it keeps me from getting wrapped up in the commercialism of it.

Those are just a few things that I do to keep myself happy, healthy and full of energy. This season gives us the opportunity to bless others with not only material things but with our time and our love.

Blessing others is for me part of  living prosperously.