It’s Thanksgiving, which means those who haven’t already begun focusing on Christmas likely will be starting tomorrow. The holiday season is here in full force.

This also means that the 2017 calendar year is almost over. The traditional New Year’s midnight countdown will be here in the blink of an eye, it seems.

It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind that is the upcoming holidays. The stress that accompanies this time of the year can often be overwhelming. It makes it a bit easier sometimes to pack it all in and hope to get back on track at the beginning of the New Year.

There’s still over a month left in 2017. That may be hard to believe — and perhaps overwhelming in and of itself — but that’s still enough time for a strong finish to the year.

For students, adults and everyone in between, there are plenty of different angles to take. Some are dealing with the stress of upcoming exams, tests and year-end evaluations. Others may be struggling to find the perfect gift for a significant other.

One key to this time of the year is to live in the moment. Planning ahead is necessary for holiday meals and get-togethers, but be sure to tackle daily tasks as they come.

The daily routine is important to maintain. A good diet and regular exercise are often the first things to go out the window during the holidays. Not paying attention to those can amplify the impacts of stress.

Moreover, don’t be afraid to say no. Extra responsibilities tend to accumulate. One shouldn’t take on extra duties he can’t handle, if a schedule is already packed tight.

If it all begins to feel like too much, just take a deep breath. A brief stroll down the waterfront or some window shopping on Main Street can wipe stress right away. Taking time to appreciate all there is for which to be thankful can do wonders. After all, that is what this time of the year is all about.