Thanksgiving is a time to reflect, relax and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Although there are an abundance of wonderful things about the holidays, many of you probably spend a portion of it feeling stressed and overwhelmed. The pressure of preparing the perfect thanksgiving spread, braving the shopping crowds on Black Friday and dealing with dinner table squabbles - these are just a few things that might give you pre-Thanksgiving heart palpitations. 

We can’t guarantee that your pumpkin pie will taste as delicious as Grandma’s, or that Uncle Frank won’t pick an argument with Cousin Joey. What we can do is give you these 3 tips to help ease holiday stress so you can enjoy your Thanksgiving festivities to the fullest:

1. Be Prepared 

Cooking up a Thanksgiving meal for 10+ family members and friends can be rewarding and daunting at the same time. Do yourself a favor and think of ways that you can prepare in advance so that you’re not stuck inside, laboring in the kitchen all day. 

• 1 week before Thanksgiving: Avoid the crowds and long line ups by doing your grocery shopping before the holiday rush.
• 2-3 days before: Stock up on goodies by doing your holiday baking in advance. Choose quick and easy recipes like these Pumpkin Spice Bars or Chocolate & Coconut Snowball Cookies.
• The night before: Slice up your veggies, set the table and make a few side dishes ahead of time. Try this simple and delicious Autumn Chop Salad recipe. 

2. Choose Your Friday: Spa Friday vs Black Friday 

We get it - it’s hard to resist those Black Friday deals, especially with December fast approaching. We’re not implying that you should skip the shopping all together, we’re simply asking you to reconsider the way you shop this year. Instead of braving the busy shopping malls on Black Friday why not head to your local Éminence spa instead? Unwind with a facial or a massage and pick up a few items on your holiday shopping list while you’re there. Our Limited Edition Gift Sets are great for anyone on your list and our Citrus Lip Balm makes the perfect stocking stuffer.

Not convinced that #SpaFriday is the way to go? This video might convince you otherwise: 

3. Express Gratitude

The most important way to de-stress during Thanksgiving? It’s simple - be thankful. It’s scientifically proven that gratitude improves health and overall happiness (Forbes). In fact, gratitude research suggests that feelings of thankfulness have “tremendous positive value in helping people cope with daily problems, especially stress" (WebMd).

So whether you're thankful for your loved ones, your career, health, freedom - or all of the above - practicing gratitude leads to a more relaxed Thanksgiving holiday, and a healthier and happier year ahead.

How do you de-stress during the holidays? Tell us in the comments below. 

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