-
Christine Meehan
-
December 4, 2024
It’s upon us – the season of much to do and too little time to do it! While feelings of excitement fill the air at this time of year, people can also feel more stressed. Planning ahead and delegating can help with some of the many things on the “to do “ list. Also, creating a budget around Christmas shopping and sticking to it will reduce panic and anxiety.
Your Christmas Survival Pack can include many natural supports to help stress management, relaxation, sleep, energy and digestion so you’ll feel merry and bright!
10 Tips To Help You Survive Christmas
1. Tap into the calming power of magnesium which can be taken internally, used externally as a oil or cream or added to a relaxing bath in the form of Epsom Salts. After a busy day of shopping, there is nothing better than a warm bath with Epsom salts and lavender. Light a relaxing candle of jasmine, chamomile or bergamot and allow your body and mind to unwind.
2. Switch to herbal teas during this colder time which will hydrate as well as providing support for your immune system, digestion, sleep and mental health. Pukka teas have a great range to choose from and provide an advent calendar which is a mix of all the flavours.
3. Help your mind let go of obsessive planning and overthinking by using lemon balm and l-theanine. You can get a combination of both nutrients in Melissa Dream which can be taken during the day for mild anxiety or used at night-time to help you drift off to sleep.
4. Rescue Remedy is a go-to product where feelings of being overwhelmed occur with crowds in shops or on the street. There are options for children and adults and always handy to have in your pocket!
5. Add to all the Christmas busyness, the onset of winter chills and sniffles can set you up for a rundown immune system – stock up on Vitamin C and D to help boost your immunity as well as adding more garlic, ginger and turmeric to your diet.
6. Good digestive helpers at Christmas include digestive enzymes which can help with discomfort and bloating. Take a digestive enzyme before a heavy meal to help break down the rich food and finish your meal with a calming peppermint tea.
7. Milk thistle is traditionally used for the relief of occasional overindulgence and can help with indigestion and upset stomach making it ideal for party season.
8. For a warming, soothing fireside drink, try some mulled wine with added cinnamon and orange slices. There are many alcohol free options which are delicious and indulgent and won’t have you feeling groggy the next day.
9. Wrap up and get some fresh air whenever possible to clear your head, relieve stress and anxiety and increase energy. Even 20 minutes walking after lunch will provide great benefits to digestion and mental health.
10. Spending time with family and friends at Christmas is wonderful but do remember to have some me-time if you need it – we all deserve it during this busy season.
I hope you all have a very lovely and stress free Christmas
Davina Dowling - Nutritional Therapist