Simple ways to transform holiday stress into joy

December 11, 2013 · 0 Comments

The end of year holiday season is a busy time for many of us; parties to go to, money to spend and many people to consider at this time. It can be a time of great joy with family and friends or a time of stress and overwhelm from outside “expectations” or “obligations” of us. Here are a few helpful guidelines to help us through the holiday season:

1. Slow down and breathe- exhale – any stress, impatience or frustrations as cloudy smoke, Inhale – a feeling of lightness and soften into compassion for yourself & others.

2. Focus your mind on what makes you feel joyful – what makes you smile inside?

3. Create a sensation of joy and ambiance in your home with pleasant smells, sounds & visuals – bake with spices you love while listening to your favourite holiday music. Diffuse holiday essential oils in your home, such as frankincense, myrrh, cinnamon, clove, pine, balsam fir, lavender or juniper. Decorate and make simple changes in your home with colours and art that you love.

4. Choose healthy foods and drinks of the season that create warmth and joy for you, like warm apple cider and teas, spices of ginger and cinnamon, hormone free meat (beef, chicken or lamb) and vegetable stews, warm grain cereals with dried nuts or fruits and maple syrup, preferably made with locally grown, organic, non-GMO ingredients.

5. Stress and immune support – supplement your health with Vitamin D3, magnesium and trace minerals, Astralagus, Echinacea or Mushroom Complex formulas, and Holy Basil teas to uplift and provide adrenal support.

For more information, classes and support in your greater health, visit our team of friendly health care practitioners at Soaring Heart Wellness – 116 Main Street East, Shelburne. 519 925-2822 www.soaringheartwellness.com.

Ellen Brakel is co-owner of Soaring Heart Wellness, a Natural Food and Healthy Living Store in Shelburne. She has been a health practitioner for the past 18 years with certification and training in massage and cranial sacral therapy, yoga, art and meditation, nutrition, reiki, re-connective healing, acupuncture, psychotherapy and counseling.

By Ellen Brakel, Soaring Heart Wellness