May these simple reminders support more holiday cheer and deep wellbeing.
Decide what makes the holiday special for you, and do that thing.This year I really wanted to carve out some quiet time and space during the weeks just before Winter Solstice. I shared my desire with others, and a few folks joined me. I timed it to coincide with advent, and made and lit the advent wreath each night while I enjoyed low lighting and candlelight after sunset. I bought myself an advent calendar, and enjoyed seeing the day's gift. These are small things, but they are meaningful to my soul (and my inner child). What would make you happy this season?
Stay hydrated: carry a thermos of hot water or hot herbal tea (ginger is warming and soothing to mucous membranes; mint is cooling and soothing for acidity) Sip it throughout the day. Hot water is gently detoxifying, opens the subtle pathways, keeps you warm and stimulates digestion. Sipping water is an especially effective way to hydrate, vs. chugging which is often peed out quickly.
Sit down for meals instead of grazing throughout the day: Stay nourished with good food in the form of 2 -3 meals a day at regular times. Snacking between meals causes indigestion and bloating. Save late night eating for holiday parties, and otherwise strive to nourish yourself more during daylight hours. Your digestion and mood will thank you.
Speaking of holiday parties: before a gathering, nourish yourself. Even a bowl of soup before a party will be supportive and help you be more selective about what you enjoy at the buffet.
Enjoy the seasonal fare when you have it. When you do indulge, enjoy every moment. It's okay to be discerning and go for those things you truly love. Savor the celebratory foods you like, and enjoy them thoroughly (no guilt)!
After over-indulging, wait to eat the following day until you're truly hungry. After a big night, chances are you won’t be hungry for breakfast. Skip it. Sip hot water or hot herbal tea instead and wait for your appetite to return. This simple practice allows your body to deal with the excess easily. When your hunger returns, eat something easy to digest like soup or kitchari.
Get outdoors: Savor the season by getting outdoors as often as possible. If you're in a climate that's cold and gray or rainy a lot, prioritize getting out any time the sun is shining. There's no end to the positive effects of nature, assuming you're dressed for the conditions! Connect with the elements around you and the gifts of the seasonal shifts: bare trees, cool air, bright skies when they're visible, more darkness in the evenings, er late afternoons!!!
Take some time daily for your practice: even when your traveling or hosting guests, give yourself some time in the morning to sit, move, breathe, and be with yourself. You can do this in as little as 6 minutes. Aim for 12 - 24 non-negotiable! You deserve it!
Use your neti pot and gargle: such simple practices that will help to keep your head and throat clear of pathogenic critters. Did you know there's a 30 % reduction in colds from simply gargling with water? That percentage goes up when you add salt of other substances. This practice doesn't have to be done daily, but at least once in a week. Tune in to your head and throat for when they're feeling a little tight, congested of "off." Always a good idea after a holiday gathering or travel.
Get to bed: hit your normal bedtime most nights and save your late nights for a few special occasions. Getting off rhythm with sleep is one of the most debilitating experiences after a certain age (you know what I mean). Prioritize good sleep and quality down time on a regular basis.
Joy to the world, and may your holy days be bright!
XO
Shannon
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