Day 10, GIFT #10 - Give Yourself the gift of a worry-free holiday

 Give your holiday anxieties and worries to God

Here’s another Christmas gift for you to give to yourself. And, it could be good for others around you, too.

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (1 Pet. 5:7 NLT)

It's already 10 days into the holiday season and so many are getting stressed out and worried by now.

Here are the top 11 things that Americans dread about Christmas, according to a survey by the Consumer Reports National Research Center:

1. 68%: Crowds and long lines

2. 37%: Gaining weight

3. 37%: Getting into debt

4. 28%: Gift shopping

5. 25%: Traveling

6 24%: Seeing certain relatives

7. 23%: Seasonal music

8. 19%: Disappointing gifts

9. 16%: Having to attend holiday parties or events

10. 15%: Having to be nice

11.  12%: Holiday tipping

But, this may be a good moment for you to step back, remain calm, relax, and then regroup. Take a little time for yourself today.

Here are a few practical tips from the Mayo Clinic

Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do. Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm.

Some options may include:

• Taking a walk at night and stargazing.
• Listening to soothing music.
• Getting a massage.
• Reading a book.

 My biggest suggestion is to not allow yourself to become anxious in the first place

Remember to seek God’s help. He’s alwaysthere for you.

 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Phil. 4:6)