Why is that the holidays are supposed to be some of the most festive and joyous times of the year, yet they more often than not end up being some of the most stressful? Obligations, commitments, travel, gift buying, gift returning, and trying to be everything to everyone can sometimes drive you up a wall. Thankfully, there are dozens of simple ways to reduce your stress levels, many of which can be done without taking your eyes off this screen (except for when you laugh so hard that you fall off your chair).

In her book, 10 Solutions to Stress, Dr. Claire Michael Wheeler explains that laughing can lower such stress hormones and cortisol and epinephrine. Moreover, there are studies that point to the immune-boosting power of laughter, validating the old adage behind its supposed healing power.

To that end, I've compiled 5 great YouTube clips that are sure to at least make you chuckle. Laugh it up!!

1. Wake Up Cat. In this animated skit, a guy can't seem to get a good night's sleep thanks to his hungry cat.

2. David Blaine Street Magic Parody. This is one of the funniest skits on YouTube, which is why so many people have watched it. Just a word of caution, however; if you find R-rated language to be offensive, don't watch this one. Otherwise, enjoy.

3. Miss Teen USA. I'm sure most of you have already seen this one, but it's always worth watching again. Poor girl ... she'll never, ever live this down.

4. House of 1000 Muppets. A parody of Rob Zombie's slasher pic House of 1000 Corpses, featuring characters from the Muppet Show and movies. Very, very well done and funny.

5. Eddie Izzard on Star Wars. Extremely funny British comedian Eddie Izzard talks about the cafeteria in the Death Start. Again, there are a few F-bombs here and there, but the comedy is top notch.

Feeling any less stressed now?