CHRISTMAS may be all around us decorated shop windows, music on the radio, lights everywhere but not everyone is into Christmas.

While most join in whether Christian or not some feel pressured into doing something they do not believe in. And many feel the pressure to buy gifts and spend money is overwhelming. Going online to find out what views are being touted in the virtual world of Scrooge' proved very entertaining and interesting.

For those who want to join a strong voice against decorations, shopping and cards, you can become a Christmas Resistor. Go to www.xmasresistance.org for stickers, posters and cartoons to help you state your case.

The Mental Health Foundation recognises the top ten stressors that come with the season to be merry' at http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/ page.cfm?pagecode=PRNR0297. But the site has much more than that: opportunities to volunteer, information on influencing policy, problems and treatments - and an interactive section with forums - all combine to make this a very helpful site. It is simple to navigate around this site, which in itself is inspirational. You can also listen to the site using a subscription service they recommend at www.browsealoud.

com.

Of course, the bloggers are out in force on this issue. Faith' at www.christmasrants.com offers some helpful tips on how to avoid the crowds of rabid shoppers'. These include making your own, which may lift your spirits; shopping online, which may save time and money; and (my favourite) giving a gift donation to a charity instead. So you can still be part of it' without getting sucked' into the whole thing. The ironic thing about this blog, is that it is loaded with Google ads which all have to do with Christmas shopping! Surfers beware!

At uk.tickle.com you can find a self discovery' site full of quizzes. If it is the pressure rather than the presents that make you feel more like Scrooge than Santa, take the quiz on What is The Best Way to Avoid Christmas Stress?' at http://uk.tickle.com/test/ christmas/start.html. Maybe the answer is there if not, a bit of humour can't hurt. It might take the edge off Scrooge'.

There are even words of wisdom from Lancashire County Council on avoiding Christmas Dodgy Deals' at http://www.lancashire.gov.

uk/corporate/news/press_ releases/2004/12/20/0002.asp, which has a warning about rogue traders taking advantage of Christmas consumers.

You can add this to your list of reasons not be involved.

If you are still needing some ammunition to help fight your cause, visit The Ethical Consumer online at http://www.ethical consumer.org/christmastips.htm for some more good reasons not to rush out to shop. From the huge volume of rubbish we create with cards and wrapping paper, to buying local instead of foreign-made foods and products, this site is a real gold mine of information. If you are feeling jaded, it just might provide the turning point. It's definitely a feel-good site.

Whether it's cynicism or commercialism, there are ways to participate, but by your rules. However, do beware if you go surfing in this direction, some of the sites you come across may contain disturbing information, pictures, games and references.

Hope you find the solution that works for you.

l Tune in for next week's Web Watch for Santas.