The Holidays, Oh What Fun!

            The weather is changing, there's a nip in the air, there's even quite a bit of snow in some places.  People are getting ready for Thanksgiving and, maybe if they're really prepared, already thinking of gifts that they'll be getting for loved ones in the near future.  Along with the change of weather and the onslaught of the holidays come stress, colds and possibly some flared emotions. Here are a few ways to help you get through this time of year healthy and happy. 
            The first thing you need to do is eat right.  If you don't already start taking a multi-vitamin and be sure you're taking at least 500mg of Vitamin C daily.  This can help keep your immune system healthy and easier to fight off an infection.  Be aware of what you're putting in your body. Try to stay away from foods high in sugar and processed products, this can help keep your body functioning at an optimal level. Another good thing to remember is everything in moderation.  If everything looks wonderful, take small portions and wait 20 minutes before going back for seconds.  It takes that long for you to digest your food and there's a good chance you may feel full by then.  If you are going to drink during the holidays, drink responsibly.  Try to keep it to a minimum, but if looks like you'll be having more than one or two cocktails try to drink water in between each drink and make sure you drink a pint of water before going to bed, this can help keep that hang over at bay in the morning.  For a good tea to take that not only gives you a dose of Vitamin C and minerals, but also a bit of an energy boost, mix 2 Tablespoons of Peppermint, 1 Tablespoon of Ginger; Hibiscus; and Nettle, and ½ a Tablespoon of Echinacea.  Take 1 teaspoon of the mix, and pour 8 - 10 oz of boiling water over it, let it steep for 10-15 minutes.  The Ginger will give you the energy boost, the Hibiscus and Nettle give you the Vitamins and Minerals and the Echinacea helps stimulate your immune system. If you're feeling a bit stuffy Peppermint can help with congestion, just breath the steam in through your nose and it can help clear you up. 
            Now, how to deal with the stress?  Not only is this a normal time for stress but with the economy the way it's been hasn't made anything easier.  One suggestion I have is, keep it simple.  If you exchange gifts put a limit on how much can be spent, or if you don't need anything suggest some charities that people can donate to on your behalf, not only does it not add to the landfill but you're also spreading some good cheer.  Don't go overboard on decorations, once again keep it simple.  Let nature be your backdrop, walk through the park and pick up some pinecones and some sticks.  Pick up a pumpkin or two at the grocery store.  If you're having a big dinner over at your place have it be pot-luck, make the main dish and have everyone else bring the sides and dessert, you could even have someone bring the centerpiece.  And to keep nerves nice and even remember to breath and kill them with kindness, and then serve them a nice cup of tea of equal mix of Peppermint, Chamomile, Lemongrass and Lavender.      
            Lastly, remember that there is light at the end of the tunnel.  The Holiday Season doesn't last forever, even if at times it feels like it.  When you start feeling overwhelmed don't be afraid to ask for help, when you feel like you're ready to blow up, go for a walk or curl up on the couch, turn off the TV, open a good book and enjoy a nice cup of tea. 

Richelle Trivedi, Health Correspondent

Richelle's Column, Natural Living, published bi-monthly to Gather Essentials: Health covers different uses for herbs found in everyday life, nutritional insights, and simple ways to help make improvements to your life, all without being preachy.

Richelle is a Master Herbalist and Acupressurist who has been using herbs in her life for over 16 years, she lives in Brooklyn, NY with her husband, Neil and young daughter Chandra. To see some of Richelle's herbal blends just go to MorningStar Herbals.

To check out all of Richelle's articles just go to www.gather.com/Natural Living.

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