Ah, December - it's like the world dresses up in its best, sparkliest outfit and invites us all to join the party. Despite my love for December's charm, the festive season demands an immense amount of our energy and it is easy to over-indulge amongst the celebrations. After a few days of heavy, oily, and rich food, sluggishness creeps in, leaving us feeling weighed down, lethargic and out of balance, both physically and mentally.
But here's the remarkable part - it doesn't have to be this way. Just a few adjustments to our diet and lifestyle can work wonders in maintaining that balance without dimming the festive sparkle. By following these 5 Ayurvedic festive tips, we might just find ourselves gliding gracefully, rather than waddling, into 2024.
Tip #1 - It is OK to say 'NO'
During the festive season, we often find ourselves giving endlessly—our time, energy, and resources. While the spirit of generosity is at the heart of the holidays, it's equally important to be generous with ourselves. It's ok to say "no." By doing so, you create space for self-care, rest and preserve your energy to fully embrace the joy of the season and create meaningful experiences without feeling drained or overwhelmed.
Consider taking some personal time to reflect. Jot down the events and commitments that resonate with your values and bring you genuine joy. Concentrate on these, and kindly decline the ones that may overwhelm or stretch you thin. Use assertive but polite language to express your limitations. "I'd love to, but I'm committed elsewhere" or "Thank you for the invitation, but I won't be able to make it" can be helpful phrases.
This holiday season, gift yourself the freedom to set boundaries. Understand that it's perfectly acceptable to decline certain invitations or commitments.
Tip #2 - Spice it up
According to Ayurveda, spices contain incredible healing powers and help to regulate our digestive fire ('agni' in sanskrit) to ensure we properly digest the foods we eat. Now is the time to use spices liberally in our cooking and in our drinks.
Give the following a try:
Add spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger and cloves to your meals, such as breakfast porridge, stewed fruits, festive desserts and even to your wine.
Ginger pieces and fennel seeds are excellent digestive and stomach aids. Infuse them together in hot water to make the perfect elixir to sip on after indulging in a sumptuous feast.
Cardamon, caraway, cumin and coriander seeds are also great if you are feeling bloated. Infuse in hot water and sip throughout the day.
Give your digestive system a head start! Try nibbling on a whole spice seed like clove, or any other seed listed above, about 30 minutes before a heavy meal. This quick tip will kickstart your digestive fire — the pungent flavor may surprise you, but it's a simple and potent digestive aid straight from your kitchen cupboard.
Tip #3 - Intermittent fasting
Intermittent fasting offers our digestive system a well-deserved break, enabling it to efficiently process and metabolise the indulgent holiday foods we relish. A pause to our digestive system allows our lymphatic system adequate time to transport nutrients to our organs and expel waste from the body.
Consider skipping breakfast after a heavy evening meal or forgoing dinner after a heavy lunch. If fasting isn't your preference, opt for simple, light, and easily digestible meals between heartier ones such as soups, buttered toasts, or vegetable stews. I particularly enjoy soups or broths during this season—not only do they offer soul-soothing warmth, but they also provide a delightful second life for leftovers."
Tip #4 - Create moments of stillness
Create moments of stillness isn't about adding more to your to-do list. Instead, it's about consciously carving out small sanctuaries of peace within the holiday chaos, allowing you to recharge.
Consider these simple yet powerful ways to infuse tranquility into your days:
Mindful Morning Rituals: Kickstart your day with a brief ritual dedicated to tranquility. Whether it's savoring a cup of herbal tea in silence, practicing a few minutes of gentle stretching or meditation, or simply taking a quiet moment to set intentions for the day ahead, these mindful practices can ground you and prepare you for a busy day.
Step into Nature: Connecting with nature's rhythm serves as a reset button for our minds. Step outside, even for a short walk, and immerse yourself in the simplicity of nature. Take in the crisp winter air, admire the serene beauty of the season's decorations, or find solace in observing the silent dance of snowflakes /rain drops.
Tech Free Zones: Designate specific periods or spaces in your home as tech-free zones. Encourage family members to join in and embrace these moments without screens. Engage in simple activities like reading a book, family games night or practicing a hobby that brings joy.
Breathwork Practices: In between holiday errands or gatherings, take intentional breaks. Find a quiet corner or step outside for a few minutes and focus on your breathing. The practice of pranayama offers a gentle reminder to pause, reconnect, and find stillness within.
"In the midst of movement and chaos, keep stillness inside of you" – Deepak Chopra
Tip #5 - Indulge in oil massages
According to Ayurveda, the practice of abhyanga (self-massage with oil) is deeply detoxifying. It settles the nervous system, calms and nourishes the skin, promotes healthy circulation and support the detoxification process.
Consider these tips to make the most of your oil massage:
Choice of Oil: Opt for organic and warm oils like sesame, coconut, or almond. They offer nourishment and are easily absorbed by the skin.
Warmth: Warm the oil slightly before applying. This aids in better absorption and enhances the calming effect.
Start with the Feet: Pour a small amount of oil onto your palms and begin massaging the oil into your feet. Gradually work your way up the legs and towards the torso using long strokes. Pay attention to areas where stress tends to accumulate.
Timing: Aim for a morning routine to kickstart your day with a sense of tranquility, or perform it in the evening to unwind and prepare for a restful night's sleep. Perform oil massage after a shower can help your skin to retain moisture.
By adding organic massage oil to your holiday wish list this year, you're gifting yourself a rejuvenating and beneficial self-care ritual that harmonizes both body and mind."
I hope these tips bring ease and joy to your daily life over the festive season. May they serve as a comforting companion on your journey to finding balance within yourself. Follow us on Instagram for seasonal holistic tips.
And lastly, sending you and your family warm wishes for a truly magical holiday season and a New Year filled with boundless possibilities and joyous moments!
With love and gratitude,
Daniella and Nancy.
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