The holidays can be a stressful time with all the hustle and bustle going on. There are so many parties and other celebrations to attend, all the shopping and worrying about money, and in our region we often have to contend with the weather as well. It’s important to take a little time for yourself during these busy weeks and just relax. This is such an exciting season, but if you’re too stressed out, you won’t be able to truly enjoy this festive time with family and friends. That’s where the 12 Days of Happiness come in. For the twelve days leading up to Christmas, set aside a little time each day to do an activity that is either relaxing or just makes you feel good. Avoid activities that require too much involvement. Remember, this should be stress free.  You can make yourself a calendar in the spirit of an advent calendar, make a paper chain with activities written on each link, or simply schedule some time for activities in your planner or personal calendar. Here are some activity ideas to get you started:

Cookie exchange – You’re probably already planning on doing some baking this month, so whip up an extra batch of your favorite cookies and plan an exchange with your friends or co-workers. You’ll get some new recipes, a little bit of girl time and a nice sugar rush.

Movie night – Pour yourself a glass of wine, grab a blanket and sit down with a good movie. Maybe your favorite holiday flick?

Walk – Bundle up and go for a walk. Physical activity is great for reducing stress, and after a 20 minute walk, you won’t feel so bad about eating that extra cookie.

Hot Chocolate – Make some hot chocolate on a stick. Keep some for yourself and give some away as gifts. These would be great to keep around for any last-minute gift giving.

Dinner by candlelight – Even if your dinner came out of a box, eating by candlelight just makes you feel better. The soft flicker of a candle is so relaxing after a long day in the office under florescent lights.

Share the love – Take some time to call your friends and family just to tell them how much you love and appreciate them. Skip the email and pick up the phone. A phone call is much more personal and will mean more. You’ll feel better just knowing you have so many people who love you.

Volunteer – Devote an hour or two to a local charity. Help cook lunch at One World, or look here for other volunteer opportunities. This is a great way to give a gift with out spending any money and you’ll feel energized knowing you helped your community.

Clean your closets – Gather up your gently used coats, sweaters and blankets and donate them to a local women’s shelter. You’ll have more space in your closet and you’ll feel good knowing someone in need is a little bit warmer this winter.

Reach out to a neighbor – Have some extra holiday goodies laying around? Put a plate together and offer it as a gift to a neighbor you don’t know very well. You’ll have someone you can call on for a cup of sugar and you’ll make their day a little bit brighter.

Night at the movies – Treat yourself to a movie at the Magic Lantern (all shows are just $5) or the Garland Theater (all shows $3.50). You’ll be supporting a local business and taking a much needed break. Invite some friends and make it a girl’s night out.

Happy hour – Meet a friend or two for a drink after work. We all need to decompress every now and then and good martini or pint is just the thing to help with that. Check out HappySpokane.com for happy hour specials around town.

Take a nap – Getting enough sleep is vital for keeping stress levels down. With cold and flu season in full swing, minimizing stress and maximizing rest is the key to staying healthy. Plus it’s fun – taking a nap in the afternoon always feels like you’ve gotten away with something sneaky.