Holiday stress is an actual disorder. It can be referred to as SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder. And it happens to many Americans each and every year – most often by the millions. When they should be making wonderful memories with family and friends, all too many individuals are holed up in their beds; too worried, scared, or depressed to venture out into the world. What can be done to combat these crippling feelings of anxiety and sadness? Here are a handful of tips to help get you back into the swing of the happy holiday season.
Remember, Orange Is A Fall Color
Coincidentally, it is also an amazing scent. Sweet orange essential oils should be a must-have in every household. Particularly around the holidays. Its invigorating, pleasant aroma is welcome all year long. But especially for those who find themselves a little glum as cooler weather starts to set in, the smell of sweet, light oranges can be a real pick-me-up. The scent of citrus elevates your mood by raising the body’s level of norepinephrine. Other citrusy essential oils are lemon, lime, grapefruit, tangerine, and citrus blast.
Just A Spoonful Of Sugar…
Or more accurately, honey. Adding a bit of honey to your tea, cookies, stir-fry – most anywhere you might otherwise have used sugar – can help refresh and revitalize your energy level. Furthermore, your body’s immunity could be increased by the antibacterial and antioxidant properties contained within honey. Darker honeys are the best for this purpose.
Take A Walk On The Wild Side
Or any side for that matter. Getting out and going for a half hour walk will help reduce anxiety, calm your brain, and possibly even help you sleep better.
Spice Things Up A Bit
Emeril Lagasse had it right when he said, “Let’s kick it up a notch… BAM!” Adding a touch of hot spice to your dreary meal will additionally kick up your mood. Endorphins are triggered by hot, spicy foods which lends to feelings of well-being and euphoria. Spicy foods have also been attributed to lowering your chances of stroke and heart attack.
Just Say “No”
Don’t be so eager to say yes to all of the event attending, card sending, cooking, shopping, and crazy activities that surround the holidays. Slow down and feel free to say no to one or more of those time consuming, frequently overwhelming expectations.
Don’t Ignore Your Libido
A romp in sheets may be just what you need to brighten your mood. Once again, the release of endorphins helps bring you back to life when depression has got you down. There are essential oils that are known libido boosters and can be used in potpourri, in skin creams, in vaporizers, etc. Some of these are ylang ylang, jasmine, rose, clary sage, neroli, fennel, and sandalwood. Additionally, you may even find yourself sleeping better following a little extracurricular activity.
Let Music Soothe The Savage In You
Whether it’s a little bit country or a little bit rock ‘n roll, or something in between, listening to the right kind of music can be very therapeutic. Steer clear of sad, depressing songs, however. And for goodness sake, don’t start those crazy Christmas carols before Thanksgiving. (Unless, of course, that perks you up.)
At Plant Guru, we carry kits and collections that are perfect for gift giving. It doesn’t matter if the recipient is new to natural, essential products or is a seasoned aficionado – we have something for everyone. Shop with us today!