Ed gives his 2 rules for managing stress and toxic people especially at Christmas and during the holidays. The main rule is walk away from any situation which is designed to hurt you or where you feel uncomfortable, if you want to stay then make sure you are protected and make your position is very well known to those who do not support you.
There is no need to justify or explain, those are just control mechanisms, always be kind and grateful though be firm.
Calibrate your energy and mood state and act accordingly before you enter the situation. Never expose yourself to harm, and if you are feeling off already then either recharge or walk away.