rituals for the new year
I hope your holidays so far are wonderful; filled with close family, delicious foods, and the dearest of friends… And maybe the new Star Wars movie, too.
I confess to pushing harder than I should have this season….trying to get just a little more out of each day and doing my best to keep everyone happy. That’s what we do, don’t we?
So if you’re guilty of that too, your daily self care may have slid of of Santa’s Sleigh.
And, adrenal fatigue may have set in as a result of all that stress.
Here are some signs that you might be overdone, too.
*You’re having a hard time winding down at night, and feeling exhausted the next day after a full night’s sleep… ugh…
*You’re retaining water even though you’re eating clean….double ugh…
*You feel indecisive and distracted.. How to choose between red or white? Sparkling or still? Stay or go? …Don’t ask me…
I’m committed to using this week to get back on track, and I thought I’d share a few of my favorite ways to bring back YOU, as well.
Serenity, calm, focus… Let’s try this on before 2016 hits, shall we?
Life has me splitting my time between two cities to maintain the demands of my business while juggling the role of CEO, friend, and [single] mother.
Recognizing the toll that can take, my daily rituals keep me feeling and looking my best. AND, like any new habit, they take time and discipline to set in motion. Once you do, these methods will combine to keep you clear and calm, no matter what the day brings.
1. Vitamin D: My days may be jam packed, but when the sun is out I make it a priority to get outside for at least 10 minutes. The morning hours are best for this, but anytime of day will do. Go for a brisk walk or take a call outdoors. You’re body will be energized and your mind will be sharper. To boost your wellness levels all year round, add a Vitamin D3 supplement.
2. Flax Oil: Flax seeds are the leading dietary source of lignans, a type of phytoestrogen and plant source similar to naturally occurring estrogen produced by our bodies. Estrogen production lowers as women age, so this might be a good source of healthy Omega 3 and help you adjust if you’re 40+. Studies have shown that flaxseed oil reduces the risk of breast cancer, and other types of cancers, too.
Note that if you have a hormone-linked cancer, an overabundance of flax may not be a good idea. It’s always best to double check with your doctor.
I add a spoonful to my smoothie or enjoy it as a salad dressing at meals. Note: I don’t recommend flax oil for men.
3. Lavender: No matter what the day throws at me, this herb never lets me down. Massaging a few drops of oil on the bottoms of your feet at bedtime will soothe your nervous system and help you into relaxation mode and eventually deep sleep. On especially hectic days, I spray my sheets before I get in bed or dab a few drops behind each ear lobe. You can order my favorite kind here.
4. Hot Bath: What could be better than a clean tub, warm steaming water and the scent of your favorite bath soaps or essential oils? Add a neck pillow and a few candles and you’ve crafted an instant getaway. Until last year, I would talk myself out of making time for a bath — I thought I would be better off working at my MAC or calling friends, instead of indulging in quiet time.
But during my last year of crisis, I discovered the bath was guaranteed to calm my nerves, not just that night but throughout the next day, too. Spa treatments and massages are wonderful and I recommend making them a priority when it makes sense. But taking regular hot baths can do more to maintain your “motor” than even regular exercise and eating right.
Water stimulates your lymphatic system, calms the parasympathetic nervous system and lubricates connective tissue. Add a few drops of bergamot, orange or lavender and you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to another place.
5. Probiotics: If you haven’t gotten into the habit of taking a daily probiotic, this is the perfect time of year to start. Take it first thing in the morning before breakfast or 30 minutes before eating (always on an empty stomach). I like adding probiotic powder to my smoothies or take them in capsule form. Whatever brand you buy, make sure to keep them refrigerated.
And if you need a reminder of why it’s so important to take care of yourself each day, take a peek at this oldie but goodie blog post from a few years ago.
I wish you and your family the happiest of holidays, and all the best for the coming year.
With so much love and appreciation,
Holli
Xo
