Welcome to My World – Holidays, De-stressing, Last Minute Gifts
Hello World! Today I want to talk about the Holidays; not the usual conversation; & I will also talk about last minute de-stresser gifts. This time of year brings much stress to many of us. It also brings loneliness to those that have lost a loved one or if their loved ones live far away, & they won’t be surrounded by family for the Holidays. It doesn’t matter if You say Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas or Joyous Kwanzaa! Whatever you celebrate, if you are under stress or alone, it can be tough.
On a lighter note, here is something interesting I found today……
9 Last-Minute Gifts for People Who Need To De-Stress
One thing we often overlook, especially this time of year, is how stressed we are on a daily basis. Even when we acknowledge chronic stress, we rarely take the time to counteract it, often racing around even faster instead of slowing down.
If someone on your list is overworked, stressed, & badly in need of some rest & relaxation, the thoughtful gifts on this last-minute list may be just the way to inspire a healthier state of mind. #2 & #8 are my favs!
1. A Massage 
Think beyond the handmade coupons “redeemable for one free back rub” & treat your stressed-out friend to the real deal. A gift certificate for an hour-long massage from an independent therapist is a low-waste present that also supports the local economy!
2. Therapy Dough 
We all have those moments when we feel like tearing our hair out. Instead of bottling up all that angst, give your stressed-out loved one a healthy place to put it. A fancy name for “adult play dough,” this Pinch Me Therapy Dough can be smooshed, rolled, & squeezed to help relieve tension. Each variety is infused with a naturally-relaxing scent for maximum calm!
3. Eye Pillow 
Staring at screens all day takes its toll on our eyes & bedrooms that are less than completely dark at night make it even harder for those tired eyes to get some rest. Help your stressed-out friend solve both problems with an organic flax seed-filled eye pillow that smells like soothing lavender? It’s even helpful for getting rid of stress headaches!
4. Yoga Classes 
Like a massage, buying a loved-one some yoga classes is a great way to support both healthy relaxation & the local economy. When practiced on a regular basis, yoga has been shown to reduce stress, improve focus, & increase flexibility. It’s a win, win, win!
5. Adult Coloring Book 
Sometimes, we just need something to draw our chaotic minds away from all the responsibilities vying for their attention. In recent years, adult coloring has emerged as a relaxation technique that’s fun & rewarding! Choose one that features relaxing mandalas, animals, or even scenes from Harry Potter to bring a smile to your stressed-out friend’s face. Don’t forget the colored pencils either!
6. Guided Meditation CD 
The simple act of meditation has incredible health benefits that can actually change the size & function of the brain! Give your stressed out friend a jump start on a more mindful life with a mediation CD that will guide them through the process.
7. Essential Oils 
A recent article published in Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine identified reduced blood pressure & coritsol (the stress hormone) as 2 effects of essential oil inhalation. Give your stressed-out loved one a selection of soothing oils like lavender, chamomile & frankincense along with a diffuser for instant relaxation!
8. Dark Chocolate 
A recent study has shown that eating 1.4 ounces of dark chocolate lowers the body’s stress hormones & reduces anxiety, so why not stuff a fair-trade bar or two into the stocking of your stressed-out friend?
9. Aromatherapy Candles 
Non-toxic candles are a cheaper & more convenient alternative to essential oils but still pass on many of the aromatherapy effects. Seek out candles that are 100 percent soy, beeswax, coconut wax, hemp oil or some combination that doesn’t contain any paraffin, & make sure they’re infused with a soothing essential oils or other natural fragrances.