Though Christmas is past, the holidays aren't over, and neither is the tension created by so many social responsibilities.

Here's a survival guide that will help you master fundamental tasks, like avoiding holiday weight gain and de-stress during the holidays (a full day at the spa or a quick respite in your own home).

Follow these tips, and you'll be a believer, too:

JUST SAY 'THAKS'

SO SANTA, IN THE FORM OF A FRIEND, BROUGHT A DUMB GIFT?

When next you run into them, "just fake it," suggests etiquette instructor Cathy Corey of Leawood, Kan. "It's not worth hurting anybody's feelings."

Instead of the gift, focus on the giver's consideration, and don't try to win an Oscar for your performance. "Be as natural as you can be, without over-thanking them," Corey said. "When you start going goofy, people are going to see through it."

Follow up every gift with a thank-you note. "The sooner, the better." You'll feel so good about your Emily Post self.

AVOID WEIGHT GAIN

Don't deprive yourself at parties in the next few days, said Mitzi Dulan, sports nutrition consultant for the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals.

"My philosophy is enjoying," Dulan said. "Don't ... just eat celery sticks. Enjoy the treats, too." In moderation.

Pack most of the space on your party plate with nutritious fruits and vegetables. Include a small portion of healthy fats and protein such as nuts and cheese. Add bite-size helpings of yummy stuff. Most important, "if you don't love it, don't eat it."

Dulan also recommends stopping once you're satisfied. "Don't stuff yourself or make yourself feel sick. That could save you several hundred calories."

YOGA BREAK TO CHILL

You don't have to be a yogi to simmer down with the Supported Relaxation Pose, said Heidi Valenzuela, instructor at YogaXoga LLC (yogaxoga.com). The position calms the nervous system, improves circulation, relieves stress and helps to slow and steady your breath.

Sit on the floor near a chair or ottoman. Lie on your back, and gently lift your legs so that your knees, calves and feet are resting in the chair seat. Ensure that the chair seat is deep enough to allow your legs to rest comfortably and that your thighs are perpendicular to the floor and calves are parallel to the floor. Allow your arms to rest by your side. Relax your shoulders and back. Close your eyes, soften your jaw and rest for five to 10 minutes or as long as you feel comfortable. As you get up, move slowly and rest on one side before sitting.

BOOK A SPA DAY

Take time out from the holiday chaos for a day of beauty and relaxation.

Book your massage and facial first. Schedule a steam after to rinse off oils from the massage and facial. Order a manicure and pedicure next to avoid smudged polish. Plan a hair wash and style last, so you're ready for a night out.

(Source: Sarah Galliher, operations manager at Bijin Salon & Spa.)

LOW-STRESS EVE

If you're hosting a New Year's bash, consider these ideas from Jenny Steffens, owner of Occasions KC.

Serve all cold food, such as fresh seafood and sushi on huge blocks of carved ice.

"This is a presentation lavish enough for a holiday party and unique enough to be remembered," Steffens said. "The 'stress-free' concept behind this is that there is minimal refilling and no fear of things getting cold. Also, it is a way of avoiding those ugly chafing dishes."

Hire help.

"Instead of having only one bar location in your home, have a 'butler' (perhaps a pal you bribe with a great bottle of Champagne) hold a tray of poured sparkling as guests enter. This helps avoid the congestion at the bar at the beginning of the evening and helps set a festive mood for the party."

Enlist a friend to troubleshoot.

"Hire someone to take care of anything that might come up such as problems with the music, lights, parking, noise, the staff, etc. This takes a huge burden off the host." This doesn't have to be a professional; it could be a trustworthy young neighbor.

Book a surprise.

"Whether it is a thoughtful parting gift — scones for breakfast the next day, a CD of the music that was played, etc. — or a surprise such as a children's choir or carolers to sing, these small touches can take pressure off the other aspects of your party and allow you to enjoy entertaining."

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