Quick Study [kwik stuhd-ee]: The Huffington Post Canada's tips to make your life a little sweeter, five minutes at a time. Think of it as a cheatsheet for your general well-being.

For the next 30 days, we're checking out how to take a break from your busy holiday schedule and relax -- in unexpected ways.

THE EXPERT:

The Huffington Post Canada talked to Canadian celebrity chef Mark McEwan, on ways to stay calm during holiday cooking.

What can we do at this time of year that will help relieve stress during holiday cooking?

Don't try to overachieve. People try to do too much for the holidays and get stressed out. Usually the Christmas meal is the biggest culprit. Try to use a good food store, create a list of things to do -- keeping it easy and achievable -- and not go crazy on the meal.

Alternative Holiday Meal:
Porchetta traditionally comprises a whole pork loin and belly, but roasting only the shoulder is definitely more practical in your home's kitchen. Check our McEwan's recipe for slow-roasted pork shoulder with pear mostarda.

TWITTERVERSE GEM:

@liz_buckley
Liz Buckley

Ah, the annual work Christmas meal. A time to get together with your colleagues and traditionally, explain that chicken isn't vegetarian.

December 12, 2011 11:08 am via Twitter for iPhone Reply Retweet Favorite

HUFFPOST SECRETS:

Last week we asked etiquette expert Karen Cleveland of the Finishing School, what one should do if they embarrass themselves at a holiday party.

Once you've dealt with your hangover, begin by piecing together the evening by compiling details from those you were with. Find out who you owe an apology (or a whack of money?) to and take immediate action. Your damage control might take the form of a phone call, a massive dry cleaning bill, a handwritten letter or sending flowers. Regardless of how much your sloppy behaviour costs you, every penny is well-spent on redeeming yourself. Read the rest of her Q&A here.

WATCH:
Nothing says enjoying the holidays like desserts. Check out these tasty recipes.

What do you usually cook during the holidays? Let us know on Twitter at @HuffPostCaLiv or in the comments below.