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Related Link: IU Holiday Feature Stories
By Joyce Ritchie
Editor's note: The following is excerpted from a story from the annual IU Office of Communications' holiday feature packet. If you'd like to read the whole story on holiday stress or other seasonal offerings, travel to the Web site listed above.
J. Vincent Peterson, professor of education at IU South Bend, offers the acronym "BE NATURAL," as a coping tool.
BE NATURAL: The key to surviving the holiday season.
B -- Breathe deeply. It will help increase energy levels.
E -- Exercise: 20 minutes, three times a week -- and running from errand to errand doesn't count!
N -- Nutrition: Three well-balanced meals each day.
A -- Attitude: Negative attitudes are contagious and destructive. Try to see the glass half full, not half empty.
T -- Time management: Set priorities and don't take on more than you can handle.
U -- Uniqueness: Recognize and treasure your own uniqueness. Say 'no' when necessary.
R -- Relaxation: Private time to read or listen to music -- a time not to focus on the next item to do.
A -- Associations: Maintain contact with nurturing support systems -- colleagues, friends, family.
L -- Laughter: Still the best medicine.