The holiday season is here, and along with moments of joy, a lot of us can find ourselves experiencing feelings of stress, whether it's due to grief, money, high expectations, or simply not having enough time in the day to get things done. Stress can have many effects on the body, including headaches, weakened immune system, high blood pressure, insomnia, and more. During these busy times, self-care routines can become less of a priority, so we are sharing some ways that you can carve out some much needed time to reboot, revive and decompress!
1. Harness the Power of Crystals
Crystals can help you ground and dispel negative energy from your environment. Carry hematite, black tourmaline or black obsidian for protection of your energy field and aura. Set your intention in them before carrying them with you and always be sure to cleanse your crystals frequently and charge them in the moonlight.
2. Focus on Breathing
Breath is our life force energy and it's so important to know how to breathe properly. Many of us are constantly in a state of fight or flight, also known as the sympathetic nervous system on a daily basis, especially through the holidays. Proper breathwork can help us go into our rest and digest state, also known as our parasympathetic nervous system, which puts us in a state to help facilitate healing. There is a simple technique that we can do at any time that will help us during heightened states of stress and/or anxiety:
Take a deep breath in for 4 seconds, being mindful of feeling the breath in our belly, not in our chest. Hold that breath for 5 seconds, then exhale for 6-8 seconds. Repeat this exercise for several minutes and you will start feeling relaxed instantly.
3. Create a Sacred Space at Home
Our home is an extension of our energy field and needs to be a safe haven for us. Keeping our home clean and decluttered can keep our minds clear as well. Be sure to have a designated place in your home that can be your retreat to decompress, meditate, or to just be still. Have items in there that make you feel good, whether it be candles, crystals, or even music that makes you calm your mind. 432Hz music will help facilitate a calm mind and promote relaxation and healing.
4. Get Outside and Move
With the days shorter this time of year, it's so important that we get outside and get sunshine and exercise. The sun provides us with the wonder immune boosting vitamin D and exercise allows our body to secrete endorphins which are the feel good hormones to help combat anxiety and depression. Don't forget to HYDRATE!
5. Use Essential Oils to Transform Your Mood
Essential oils can elevate your mood and evoke feelings of relaxation and joy. You can diffuse them or wear them on your body with a carrier oil. Lavender will give you a calming effect, sweet orange will make you feel rejuvenated, or if you want to get into the holiday spirit, choose clove, juniper, spruce, cinnamon or frankincense.
Be kind to yourself and enjoy the holidays!
