Ayurveda has started to influence the world of late in terms of wellness. The ancient traditions have plenty of tips in store to maintain a good health and happiness. Holiday season can be fun but can also be a little stressful at times while managing guests or expenses or various other reasons. For this holiday season here are a few ayurvedic practices to keep the holiday season stress away.
1. Have warm spices – You need something nice and warm for the nice and pleasant cold weather. The spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, turmeric and others are good for the body during the cold season. According to Ayurveda, cold weather increases the vata which is the air element in the body and eating these spices can help to reduce or keep a balance during the winter holidays.
2. Drink warm water – Ayurveda says that Agni or fire is the foundation of the digestive health. The digestive system dampens every time cold water is poured in the stomach. During the holidays drink a cup of warm water or herbal tea but not during meals but 30 to 60 minutes after the meals. This helps to balance overeating or eating heavy or fried food.
3. Be thankful – Instead of counting your calories, count on the blessings that you have had and show gratitude for what you have. Always offer thanks to things that nourish you and all the cells in the body. Ayurveda is filled with hymns that sing praises for the food. Showing gratitude helps in keeping the stress levels away.
4. Build a routine of body massage – Ayurveda teaches a practice of self-abhyanga or a warm oil massage which is a soothing 10 minute self care treatment for the imbalanced vata (air element). Warm oil penetrates the skin and lubricates the whole body which is opposite of vata and hence makes a balance in the body and improves the mood of the holiday season.
5. Turmeric milk at bed time – If you suffer from insomnia due to the excitement of the holidays, a cup of warm milk with a little turmeric and powdered cardamom before bed can soothe you to a deep and refreshing sleep.
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