Here are some of my favorite ways to “simply stress less” during the holiday season.
- Get plenty of rest. I know that I can best respond to all that life throws my way after a good 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep. Maintaining a consistent sleep/wake schedule, getting outside for some natural daylight, and lavender essential oil all play an important part in my routine. Identify what in your routine supports you in catching some good quality z’s.
- Stick with your exercise routine. I have to be honest when I am stressed, exercise often falls to the bottom of my to do list. I have learned to force myself to get up and go and let me to tell you it makes a huge difference. Exercise releases the happy hormones and breaks down the stress hormones in the bloodstream. I especially notice the benefits after lifting weights and jogging. Find what works best for you and stick to it NO MATTER WHAT!
- Listen to music. From Thanksgiving to Christmas I pretty much only listen to Christmas music. I have it playing in the car and pop it on as soon as I get home. I sing along and have dance parties in the kitchen with my husband and my dog. This happens with all music, but this time of year it’s all holiday tunes. Play the music you love and listen, dance, sing, laugh, and have some fun.
- Breathe. Don’t forget to breathe. Seriously, we are often running through our days multitasking and trying to get way too much done in way too little time. Take a time out and just breathe. Focus your attention on the expansion and contraction of your body as you take a few slow deep breaths. This mini breathing break will do wonders for your focus, concentration, and efficiency. Give it a try and notice the benefits.
- Nourish your body. Eating nutrient dense foods and drinking plenty of water is always important, but especially during times of increased stress. Take the time to eat foods that support optimal functioning. Have healthy snacks such as cut veggies, fruit, and mixed nuts easily on hand for a quick snack or for in the car. Also keep a refillable water bottle handy, I always try and drink about half my body weight in ounces of water each day.
- Shift your perspective. Energy flows where attention goes. You are in control of where your attention goes. Focus on all that you love about the holidays – whether it’s time with family, the cozy cold weather, or quieter time at work. You get to choose what you want to grow and pay attention to so be sure to choose wisely.
- Incorporate essential oils. Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils – quality matters, especially if you are putting it in your body. Peppermint essential oil is one that provides numerous stress related benefits. Some of those benefits include: restoring feelings of normalcy and balance; supporting you in feeling restored and revitalized; aids in digestion; awakens senses; and promotes mental sharpness and focus.
Try out these delicious Raw Peppermint Brownies that my friend Marisa shared with me. She has more great recipes on her website here.
Peppermint Brownies
3 cups Walnuts (unsoaked)
1 cup Dates (unsoaked, pitted)
½ cup Cocoa Powder
½ tsp Vanilla Extract
2 tsp. Water (for a moister brownie)
8-10 drops of CPTG Peppermint essential oil
pinch of Sea Salt
- Put all ingredients in a food processor and mix until dough like texture.
- Spread in a square pan.
- Enjoy – these are fabulous!!!
If you would like to check out the Peppermint Oil follow this link.