The holidays are among us along with the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping for family, friends and colleagues. The stress during this time of year is real as we often are so focused on what needs to be done instead of enjoying the moment with family and friends. Because I often have to remind myself to slow down and take a moment to breath I thought I would share five ways for you to relax and rejuvenate yourself, if only for just a moment during this holiday season.
1. Have a Cup of Tea
Of course this would be my first suggestion as tea has a natural calming effect on the body and induces relaxation after a few sips. Tea for me is so much more than a beverage. Every sip is therapeutic in the sense that it helps me regulate my emotions. When I'm happy, I drink tea, when I'm sad, I drink tea, when I'm feeling anxious or overwhelmed, I drink tea and when I'm stressed, I drink gallons of it, lol. It is my go to for everything and I feel so much better once the warmth of a delicious brew touches my lips. My favorite during this time of year is our Stress Less Herbal Tisane. Caffeine free, this wellness tisane can be brewed hot or iced and can be enjoyed throughout the day.
2. Get a Massage
The holidays are the perfect opportunity to take advantage of holiday deals from your favorite day spa or massage lounge. Massage helps produce a calming effect on the body by increasing the amount of endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin released into your body. I would request an aromatherapy massage with lavender and rosemary essential oils to leave you not only relaxed but invigorated to help you tackle the shopping crowds.
3. Take a Bath
So simple, yet so soothing, a hot bath will improve blood circulation, help detoxify the body, and calm the nervous system. Add some bubbles, a glass of wine or champagne, and put on your favorite soothing tunes and watch the worries of the world fade.
4. Exercise
As much as I hate to admit it, exercise is good for you. Why, because those feel good endorphins that are released when you get a massage are also release during a good sweat session. This is a two for one because exercising during the holiday season will also help you defeat the battle of bulge during a time where sweets and indulgent food run rampant.
5. Spend Time Doing Things that Makes You Happy
Do something that makes you happy. Whether that's taking time out to read a good book, getting together for brunch with friends, coloring in your favorite adult coloring book, or taking in a movie, do something that makes you forget about the hectic holidays. Me time is always a good time and it's something we often forget about during the holiday season.