I've always loved the holiday season and I've always loved anything festive. I'm all about those cheesy Hallmark movies and ugly sweaters! What I am not a fan of this time of year is watching everyone (myself included) stress themselves out all for the temporary gift. There's a killer combination that happens when we add stress, overbooking, and cold weather. Any guess?
Disease and much of it!
In our busy society, we have gotten the balance mixed up when it comes to living by the seasons. Traditionally, Winter was a season of solitude, reflecting inwardly, warmth and rest. Now Winter is a season of overindulgent foods, hectic schedules, and an abundance of caffeine just to survive! We now receive the lovely gift of disease and wonder how it started!
But don't put away your sugar cookies just yet!! Luckly, there are options for us have a healthier and happier Christmas season! I've never been one to be a stickler about what one should eat. I do believe healing starts with what you eat, but if you feel guilty about eating that cookie that energy will shift to your body which is not okay. The key is moderation and listening to your body. Our bodies are our biggest communicators. Do you feel overwhelmed? Say no to that Christmas party or that other social commitment. It is okay to say no! :-)
I will give some of my favorite herbs and fungi for incorporating into your wellness routine. If you are on any kind of medication, pregnant, breastfeeding or any other health concern always be sure to ask your doctor before taking any supplements.
Some of my favorites are:
1. Mushrooms!!
I absolutely love mushrooms! Fungi is a very interesting group because they are known as modulators. They promote balance to our crazy immune systems. Some great mushrooms are Chaga, Reishi, and Turkey Tail. Making sure your immune system is strong is key for combating that Christmas stress ;-) Also did you know we share more DNA with Fungus than we do plants? Mushrooms work so well for our bodies because we share DNA with them!
2. Ashwagandha
Ash wha what? is a common pronunciation I hear a lot! This big word represents an amazing herb that's been traditionally used in Ayurveda. In Sanskrit it translates to "the smell of a horse" as the herb smells like horse sweat (yum!). But it also represents strength of a stallion as well. It is a type of adaptogen which may help promote our bodies to adapt to daily stress and may help soothe the adrenals. Do you drink coffee all the time? Do you rely on that peppermint mocha to get you through that shopping trip? Adaptogens may actually help combat the crazy side effects of caffeine.
3. Golden Milk
This drink is a combo of herbs. The main ingredients are commonly Turmeric, Black Pepper and sometimes Cardamom. Once again, this amazing drink is commonly used in Ayurveda. Golden Milk is used to strengthen the Ojas which in Ayurveda refers to the essential energy of the body. That energy brings balance to the immune system, mind, and even strength elsewhere. Golden Milk is a great way to keep that vigor alive. Golden Milk is also pacifying for all the Doshas in Ayurveda. Turmeric is traditionally used for a healthy inflammation response in the body. Black Pepper is used for strengthening that Agni (digestive fire) and helping our body absorb nutrients. Cardamom is considered a carminative herb which can help reduce gas in our body from different types of food. It's a little miracle pod and ideal for that heavy holiday food. Golden Milk is great anytime of the day! My favorite way to drink Golden Milk is to melt down some vanilla Ghee, add almond milk, Golden Milk powder, and simmer until just warm!
Thank you for reading some my of favorite herbal regimes. Don't forget to add activity for yourself this time of year! Yoga is a great way to pull away for yourself and get rid of stress. Don't neglect yourself and don't neglect your body! May your Christmas be a season of wellness, peace, and contentment!
Pōmaika`i, Blessings,
Leilani Nelson (Founder of LunaLei)
Any statements or claims about the possible health benefits conferred by any foods or supplements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease.
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