While many of us look forward to family time, fun and indulgence at Christmas, as parents, we may also feel stress levels rise as social calendars fill up, routines become disrupted and healthy eating patterns become much harder to maintain!
We have pulled together our top tips to help parents navigate the coming weeks, and keep stress levels in check:
Plan and pace yourself 🗓️
Many kids struggle with being out of familiar routines, and at Christmas time, the days can look very different. it may help to have a visual planner up on the wall and talk to your children about what you have planned for the day. Try to space out the busy days with quieter days at home if possible to give everyone a rest and some head space.
Enjoy some treats, but steer clear of trigger foods 🥧
There are bound to be some slip-ups with healthy eating at this time of year, and that’s OK - everyone should enjoy some guilt-free Christmas treats. If your child has a known sensitivity or intolerance to certain foods though, the short-term pleasure probably won’t outweigh the longer-term pain of gastric discomfort, disrupted sleep or challenging behaviours. Luckily there are some good ‘free-from’ festive options available, like these gluten-free mince pies by Eversfield Organic. Sugar can be tricky to avoid. Setting your family up with a winning protein-rich breakfast will help balance blood sugar and regulate mood throughout the day.
Herbal help 🍵
If you are feeling in need of a recharge, reach for a relaxing brew rather than a caffeine hit. Herbs like chamomile, lemon balm and lavender are excellent for calming the nervous system and helping you get a good night’s sleep. Make a double-strength infusion and brew for five to seven minutes for maximum benefit.
Nourish your nervous system 🧘🏾
When the demands of the season feel overwhelming, you may need a boost from some super-hero nutrients. Magnesium and B vitamins are essential for a healthy nervous system function. Adaptogens like ashwagandha or rhodiola are excellent for maxed-out adrenals. We love the MegaMag range by Nutri Advanced, available from the Natural Dispensary (use SMC010 at the checkout for your exclusive 10% discount).
Enjoy a long soak 🛀🏽
Epsom salt baths are one of our absolute favourite practices that bring a host of benefits. Adding a couple of handfuls of Epsom salts to your bath water supports digestion, relaxation, sleep, and detoxification. Create a temporary haven in your bathroom for a relaxing soak away from family demands.
Tap it out 💆♀️
Tapping or Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is a simple, free and accessible technique based on stimulating acupressure points to relieve stress. Studies have shown that tapping can decrease cortisol levels. Find a few minutes in the day to try tapping for yourself. You just need a quiet space and access to a video tutorial or written guidelines. You could also encourage older children who are prone to anxiety to learn some simple tapping techniques as a tool that they can use to help them self-regulate.
Get outside 🌲
Make time for a walk in nature. A daily dose of fresh air, physical exercise and access to natural daylight helps to reduce stress and maintain a healthy circadian rhythm, promoting better sleep. As all parents know too of course, getting outside is essential for cooped-up kids to run off energy and can help to defuse any family tensions.
However you choose to celebrate, enjoy the holiday season and stay calm, healthy and happy!
Always consult a qualified practitioner before introducing new supplements. Book your free discovery call today to discuss how we can help your child achieve optimal health.
Please note that we do not diagnose or treat illnesses
at Brainstorm Health, but we can help you advocate for the right medical
diagnosis from qualified doctors if necessary.
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