Easing Back into the Holidays

It is finally upon us, the holidays that we have missed for the last year. This year the holidays may look a little different for us all with the COVID restrictions lifted and the world going back to semi-normal. Just missing a year may have made us all fall out of our rhythm when it comes to our outlook on the holidays. Some may have missed the gatherings and bells and whistles, some who didn't do holidays before may have an urge to finally get into the spirit. Whatever the season looks like for you here are some herbal tips to keep your mind and body sound during the season that is rapidly approaching.

Let’s talk mind first as we are now in such a different headspace. We slowed down this past year and it is important that when we go into the holidays that we have some tricks to combat the stress that tends to surround the holiday season. On top of keeping true to physical activity and avoiding overindulging in alcohol, swapping some of your caffeine with OWL BONE BROTH  and limiting sweets. These are a few herbal remedies that can help keep us calm and ward off the stress, anxiety, and depression that often looms during the holidays. Please keep in mind these suggestions should not be used with other medications. Always ask your physician if you are already taking medications. These are best used by themselves, not with other medications. This is a beginner’s guide to introducing herbs into your everyday life, choosing one of the options for mind and body will serve you fine to start.  

This is a beginner’s guide to introducing herbs into your everyday life, choosing one of the options for mind and body will serve you fine to start.

	Passionflower that can now be found in most health food stores in tablet form is a wonderful supplement for anxiety and stress.
	Kava Kava is a wonderful stress buster, helps with anxiety, and aids in better sleep, is best used in tincture form as it is fast release.
	Holy Basil or Tulsi is one of the most well-known and effective herbs used in Ayurveda as it combats anxiety, gives mental clarity, it is the herb that helps with the mind and body as it is also a cleansing agent. Best used in tincture form this herb is a power plant.
	Using the good ole cup of chamomile tea as well as essential oils such as lavender, ylang ylang, and bergamot on wrists and in the hair are other stress reducers.

The body is where we sometimes get relaxed during the holidays, which is amazing in moderation for sure. Making sure to get plenty of sleep, not eating late, drinking lots of water as well as remembering to take our immune system boosters is key. These herbs are the herbs that if you are regularly using during the months of October through January you will notice a difference in energy and physical strength to get through the holidays.

	Elderberry mothers especially as we don't have time to be sick during this time of the year. Elderberry is best taken in tincture form as the syrups tend to be high in sugar content. Used in Ancient Egypt, as well as by Native Americans. Elderberries are another power plant that are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that boost immunity, help with inflammation, lessen stress as well as help with heart health.
	Ashwagandha is another immune system booster, adaptogens are great for swelling of legs if we are on our feet for long periods of time, and it also is a stress reliever. Best taken in powder or tablet form.
	Astragalus Root best used in tincture form is a Traditional Chinese medicine powerhouse as well. It offers balance for physical, environmental, and emotional stressors.
	OWL Venice Immunity Booster is an all-in-one supplement available online and in the store. Packed with Astragalus Root, Echinacea, Garlic Bulb, Mushrooms, Isatis Root, Forsythia Fruit, Honeysuckle flower.

Along with herbal supplements, a diet that has honey, ginger, lemon, garlic, and turmeric involved is also beneficial. Having your daily CCF tea is also an amazing way to keep your body tip top. 

Immunity-Boosting Daily Rituals 

A.M.

Glass of lemon water 

Gentle Yoga Meditation to set intentions 

Nourish with food of choice 

Take Immunity supplements 

Throughout day 

Holy Basil 

Lavender in the hair at tips 

Nourish with food of choice 

Take Immunity supplements 

P.M.

Glass of warm lemon water 

Meditation 

Nourish with food of choice 

Kava Kava 

Remember to take things slow, check back into yourself during this hectic time. We need to always take care of ourselves, mind, and body first.

Mel Aubinelliott

Melodie is the resident Herbalist at OWL Venice. She entered into the wellness world over 20 years ago through her yoga practice.Years later, during her first pregnancy, Melodie had a realization about the power of our bodies and the importance of living a natural and holistic lifestyle. Mel has acquired deep understanding and knowledge of plants and herbs through her studies at Hearts of Herbs and specializes in pediatric and pre/post natal herbalism.