Surviving the Holidays with Feng Shui

The holiday season is fast approaching. There are already Christmas decorations in the stores and Thanksgiving menus are being planned. Sometimes the holidays are not only the most wonderful time of the year, as the song says, buy also the most stressful time on the year. How can we keep this stress at bay? Simplifying and good planning can help. While planning your holiday season keep these Feng Shui inspired tips in mind.

1. Be realistic about what can be done. Out of reach expectations are sure to disappoint. Everybody wants the picture perfect holiday but take it from someone who used to kill herself to get it...it isn't worth it. Make a list of what projects or special outings you want to do and then pair it down if need be. It might be more meaningful to children if there are only a couple of traditional event that are a must every year.

2. As sad as it may be, you just may not be able to see all your family during this holiday season. As families spread out over the country it becomes more difficult to get together. You need to let go of what celebrations you can not make and just enjoy the ones you can. Instead, make plans to see others at different times during the year. For instance, we are never able to see my brother and his family during Christmas but have made a special point of seeing them every Labor Day.

3. Make sure the energy of your home is conducive to good communication. In its current state the number 3 can carry trouble with arguments and quarrels. Since this is a wood element we would want to reduce its influence by adding earth. A proper Feng Shui consultation will show where these trouble spots might be. If you already have had an evaluation, make sure these areas are properly remedied so that family communication can be as smooth as possible.

4. Have realistic expectation of your family as well. As much as you may wish your mother-in-law acted a certain way, chances are, she isn't changing before Thanksgiving Dinner. Take a moment to acknowledge what you wish they were like. Then prepare to accept them even if they behave as they have always done in the past. Let go of your expectations as best you can and embrace people as individuals. Try and let go of past grudges as they are in the past and can not be changed. There is only now and we can enjoy this moment.

Have a great holiday season.