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Newsletter 21

Hope this newsletter find you well.

With the silly season rapidly approaching, most people notice that their stress levels go up as Christmas draws nearer. It seems the “to-do” lists are ever growing and there aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done. For many – this heightens an internal anxiety within them or makes them feel more out of sorts with their nervous system. Sleep can be affected, and you can find yourself becoming more snappy or moody, others find themselves more withdrawn and exhausted with the increased demands at this time of year.

If this resonates with you – then stop, have a moment and take a big, deep breath. Inhale. Exhale.
As you already know, creating the space for “me time” during these busy stressful times, is essential.

Here are a few simple suggestions to gently remind you!

  • Listening to music
  • Reading or listening to a book
  • Connecting with a good friend
  • Taking a magnesium or mud bath
  • Sauna
  • Belly breathing
  • Spending time in nature
  • Body scans/meditation
  • Enjoying your hobbies
  • Art
  • Chi gong / Tia chi
  • Making a gratitude list
  • Take time to laugh

Take some time for yourself doing whatever makes you happy

 

Give yourself a digital detox

Shut down the laptop, put your phone on silent or even better turn it off! and have a night off Netflix. In short, give your mind space and time to recover from all the information it’s having to process at this stressful time of year. Even if you can only manage an hour here and there, switching off all tech devices will work wonders.

 

 

 

At this time of year its common to get a little congested so here’s a lovely little essential oil mix

Natural Essential Oil Decongestant

Ingredients:

  •   15 drops of Peppermint
  •   15 drops of Oregano
  •   15 drops of Tea Tree
  •   15 drops of Lemon

Instructions:

Essential oils can be dispensed in a variety of ways. The easiest way to use essential oils is by simply inhaling them straight from the bottle. Open the bottle and take a couple of deep breaths.

You can also inhale them using steam. Add a few drops to your steaming shower, or add them to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for several minutes.

Using a diffuser is one of my preferred ways to safely enjoy the oils over a longer period of time. Simply follow the manufacturer’s directions. The diffuser will disperse the essential oils into the air of a room. You can also make your own spray by adding essential oils to a spray bottle with water.

If congested, add a couple of drops to your pillowcase and place the essential oil-side down before going to sleep.

If you want to use topically, it’s best to dilute with a carrier oil such as coconut or avocado oil before applying to your skin. Once diluted you can apply to your wrists, neck, or other pressure points.

Essential oils are natural and safe; however, it’s important to listen to your body. Everyone reacts to essential oils differently. Pay attention to how they are making you feel.

 

Chocolate Avocado Truffles

Prep time – 15 mins

Inactive – 30 mins

Total time – 45 mins

Makes 10–12 truffles

Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup unsweetened dark chocolate
  • 1 avocado, pitted and skinned
  • 1 teaspoon chocolate flavoured liquid stevia
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 1–2 teaspoons raw cacao powder, for coating

Instructions:

Step 1:  Place a heat-safe glass bowl inside a medium saucepan filled with 1 inch of water over low heat. Place the chocolate in the bowl and allow to slowly melt, stirring occasionally.

Step 2:  In a separate bowl, mash the avocado. When the chocolate has fully melted, remove from the heat and transfer it to the bowl containing the mashed avocado. Stir them together, then add the stevia, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until fully combined and free of clumps. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, or until cooled and hardened.

Step 3:  Scoop the mixture into 10 to 12 equal-size balls and roll them until they are smooth.

Step 4:  Place the cacao powder in a shallow bowl. Roll each ball in the cacao powder and serve immediately. Store any leftover truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Christmas is a time that some of you love and some not so much! I would like to add whether it’s your favourite time of year or not please remember to take care of yourself and manage the stress levels appropriately, eat optimally for your needs and enjoy yourselves without undoing all the good work you’ve done for your health this year.

Wishing you all a fantastic Christmas and sending good wishes for a happy and healthy 2022.

Emma