Reducing Stress For The Holiday Season
The holiday season is quickly approaching and with the added christmas parties, family gatherings and extra spending on top of everything else in your life, it is no wonder why you begin to feel so stressed.
I love the holiday season, but the pressure around christmas used to have my anxiety through the roof, leaving me sick as a dog (bronchitis to be exact) every single year! The pressure of gift purchases, the functions (whether it be family or work) and the endless food left me binge eating when no one was looking, overwhelmed and ready for a vacay the second December 26th hit.
If only I knew then what I know now, I would have gotten through it without getting so sick and would have been able to enjoy the things that are truly worth being grateful for at christmas time.
Now don't get me wrong, it is not like I never experience stress, however my tools have made all the difference! Here are some things that you will want to start, stat:
Probiotics
Lack of good bacteria can lead to an increased level of cortisol (your stress hormone), leaving you feeling even more stressed. Studies have also shown that your good bacteria are also an important piece of the puzzle in your bodies ability to produce serotonin (your happy neurotransmitter).
Depleted bacteria can be caused by stress, dehydration, antibiotics, and so much more, so taking a probiotic will be essential to help both you and your body adapt to stress.
Digestive Enzymes or Apple Cider Vinegar
I don't know about you but one of the first things to go when stress comes lingering is my digestion. Eating just about anything will leave me bloated and feeling heavy. Sound familiar?
The problem is stress depletes and shuts down the production of your digestive enzymes, responsible for breaking down your foods. Undigested foods begin to ferment in the gut (and not the good kind of fermentation), leaving food undigested and you bloated. There is nothing worse than feeling heavy and full in your christmas outfit.
Support your gut this holiday season, by taking 1 capsule of an enzyme or 1 tbsp of ACV diluted in 1/4 cup of water before each meal.
Rhodiola
The calming effects of rhodiola have been known for many years and is truly a must have in my supplement drawer. Both soothing and calming, rhodiola will induce relaxaton without sedating you. We still want you to be perky and have a good time!
Note: If you are on any medications, it is imperative that you verify with your pharmacist that there are no contraindications.
Say No And Schedule Time For You
I know, I know! It sounds so easy to say, but would you actually do it? As much as you would like to, attending ALL the parties, functions, and events will come at a cost... your sanity! The overwhelm often comes from feeling like we have too much to do, in too little time or simply a lack of self care. Lighten the load with a lighter more enjoyable schedule! You will enjoy yourself more and be more present because of it.
Looking for daily support in ending the stress, gas, bloating and violent bowel movements? Join my FREE Facebook group, Soul Food Community!
