Holiday Stress?? Try spending some time ALONE.

Knock Knock. Who is it?? It’s STRESS! Just in time for the holidays. If you’re anything like me, this is one of my favorite times of the year. But the big kicker here is how do we manage stress levels during all of the holiday cheer? There is no doubt that we are by nature social creatures, which means it’s extremely important for us to have and maintain strong connections with others. But, it is also just as important for us to spend some of our time in solitude. Studies have shown that the ability to tolerate alone time has been linked to increased happiness, better life satisfaction, and improved stress management.

 If this is new for you, I encourage you to start small. You can start by simply taking a 20-minute walk with your dog, getting out that hobby or craft project that you’ve tucked in the back of your closet, or just watching an episode of your favorite tv show. Alone time can look however it needs to look for you just as long as you feel refreshed and recentered after it. If it adds extra stress, ditch it!

 Another way you can manage stress is with powerful adaptogens. Adaptogens are a class of herbs that help your body adapt to stress. Some of my favorites are:

–      Ashwagandha – increases the body’s ability to cope and respond to internal and external stressors.

–      Reishi – a mushroom that can help enhance mood, improve concentration, and support the immune system.

–      Vitamin B Complex – not an adaptogen but this vitamin complex is pure gold. It helps with everything from stress to fatigue to mood.

My go to favorite product I use every single day contains BOTH Ashwagandha and B-vitamins. Fit from the company Fitteam is a supplement (in powder form) chalked full of amazing ingredients that can help with:

–      Mood Enhancement

–      Appetite Suppressant

–      Increased Energy

–      Antioxidant Benefits

–      Increased Metabolism

–      Improved Mental Focus

–      Enhance Fat Loss

AND it’s Organic, Non GMO, Vegan, Soy Free, Kosher, and Gluten Free!

Taking 5 minutes in the morning to drink this while wrapped up in my blanket is how I enjoy taking time for myself. This small act allows me to begin the day with intention and a grateful heart.

Taking time for yourself won’t only help yourself, it will permeate to everyone around you. Your kids, spouse, friends, co-workers, etc. The more relaxed, centered, and grounded you are the more pleasant you will be to be around. Taking time for yourself takes commitment and persistence but you are worth it. Now go have a wonderful holiday season!