Optimize Your Body Even During Holiday Stress

Holiday stress is a well-known negative byproduct of this time of the year. The problems we experience are many; our high expectations, over commitments, family, battling crowds while gift shopping, preparing or indulging in low quality meals & the associated weight gain all pile on to keep our stress levels elevated. Battling stress and calming the nervous system are some of the most important holiday activities, that are far to often over-looked. Here is a simple list of ideas to help you calm your body and your mind during this stressful time of the year.  

Step Into The Sunshine

The Vibetality Human Optimization Studio is located in Chandler, Arizona where we get an average of 296 days of sun a year. Take advantage of our local sunshine this holiday season.  Spend time outdoors, preferably in the grass with bare feet! to keep your body nice and grounded while you soak in those rays. At the very least get near a window on sunny days. The sun's rays will do wonders for your mind!

Smell Some Local Citrus

Its Lemon season here in Arizona, and research on depression has found that certain citrus fragrances boost feelings of well-being and alleviate stress. The citrus smell, ups your norepinephrine hormone levels, norepinephrine is a hormone that affects mood and decision making. If you're looking for a quick mental boost just cut open a lemon or grapefruit and take a good deep inhale. 

For more of an all-day affect, apply a little cirtus essential oil on a cotton ball that you can carry with you all day!

Boost Your Mood With 5-HTP

5-HTP is thought to increase serotonin, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep. 5-HTP works in the brain and central nervous system by increasing the production of serotonin. Serotonin can affect sleep, appetite, temperature, sexual behavior, and pain sensation. Since 5-HTP increases the synthesis of serotonin, it is used for several diseases where serotonin is believed to play an important role including depression, insomnia, and obesity. Several double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of 5-HTP in the treatment of depression. However if you take antidepressant medications, talk to your healthcare professional before trying 5-HTP as they can overlap and produce too much serotonin. 

Don't Worry About Perfection

Stop obsessing about making everything perfect. Things are never made perfect, perfection only happens when you let go and enjoy! The world is not going to end if dinner makes it to the table a few minutes late. Really spend your energy on enjoying whoever you are around this holiday season. Focus your holiday energy on loving the people and or animals around you and don't forget to spend some time and focus on loving yourself. The key is not to sweat the small stuff, letting go those tiny worries will really help you to have an enjoyable holiday!

Whatever you do, make sure you enjoy yourself!