Cal State Northridge leisure and recreation studies professor Veda Ward has some advice to keep us from turning into "chocolate-eating, stress-ridden maniacs" during the frantic holiday shopping season.

"The holidays don't have to be stressful," Ward said. "Some simple planning, and sharing can make a difference. Don't forget, both you and those receiving your gifts deserve a guilt-free and stress-free pre- and post-holiday season."

Ward pointed out that gift giving has been around since the dawn of human existence.

"There is even evidence that other species attract mates or lure prey by offering desirable or exotic food or nesting materials. So with the holiday season approaching, it is only natural that our minds turn to the thought of honoring our loved ones with that 'special something,'" she said.

The key, Ward said, is not to make finding that "special something" an impossible task.

"First, remember that gifts are to be found desirable by the recipient. Simply put, gather hints from the recipient in advance to see what he or she might really want," she said.

Ward also suggests checking out the availability of unique "variations" of the desired gift in catalogues or on the internet. "You may find 'vintage clothing,' accessories or spa-quality hygiene products 'on sale' throughout the year," she said. "Think ahead and remember what became popular right after you finished shopping last year."

It is also important to set a price limit and deadline for shopping.

"If you have a partner or spouse, come to a ball-park guesstimate on what a reasonable amount to spend on gifts makes sense for you," Ward said. "Remember, birthdays, rites of passage and vacations offer other gift-giving opportunities. Purchasing one or two gifts monthly throughout the year will probably make more sense in your budget, and allows some to 'change their minds.' A simple rule of thumb…leave the uncertain until last!"

Ward also advised reining in your desire to give people gifts you think they should have, rather than what they want. She also suggests not over-investing in interests that may be fads.

"Seek advice from experts, do your homework before entering the store, and give yourself options," she said. "For example, novice bikers may not need the most expensive model, but investing in safety gear may prove more beneficial."

And as much as you would like to, she advised against buying clothing for young adults. "Although no one likes to admit it, this age group usually wants, and actually prefers, cash or gift cards," Ward said. "Let them do the 'walking' instead of you."

Ward suggested gifts that encourage healthy active lifestyles by creating a "family fitness" theme, with each person receiving a piece of equipment that enhances family wellness. "Use small items like pedometers as 'stocking stuffers.' Purchase socks from alma maters or places the family visited together as a reminder to walk or work out."

One way to break up the holiday gift buying stress, Ward said, is to organize a shopping party with your friends. Focus on one or two stops with a break for a healthy lunch and chat. "This will hopefully soothe tired feet and fraying nerves," she said.

A variation of the idea would be to rotate child or elder care responsibilities over a four-to-six-week period, so everyone has an opportunity to shop without the kids, she said.

Ward also suggested that unless you really love to do it, have gifts wrapped before they are shipped, delivered or leave the store. An alternative, she said, is to make gift wrap at home as a family crafts project.

As a final suggestion, Ward advised picking out something that will inspire the recipient to personal excellence throughout the coming year--perhaps a personal IOU of one to two hours of quiet time, a journal or a special book.