althealth

Let’s face it, its that time of year. There are cookies, candies, fancy pies and cakes that surround us. Every place we go they are offering us something to eat. Usually that something is far from good for us. Most of the time it is loaded down with sugar and who knows what else. You know those evil things that will clog your arteries, fatten your thighs and slow down your metabolism.

But guess what? There are some healthy choices out there. No really, I am not kidding you. You just have to look for them.

Most parties and gatherings offer the simple things in life. Think crackers. Now not those little goldfish we like swimming in our tomato soup, but triskets, mulitgrain and the wide variety of designer crackers available.

These little crackers serve a number of purposes. For starters they will fill you up. A great benefit of whole grains. You don’t need so many of them.

Next is whole grain is good for you. It is good for your heart health. It has been shown to combat diabetes. It can even assist you in your weight loss goals.

So pass up that cookie platter and meander over to the cracker plate. Find something that is good for you to munch on!

Here in the US tomorrow is Thanksgiving.  A day, in this house at least, of too much food, loud family and the occasional plate snatch. Yes, before you ask, the rumor is true. My oldest son did walk away with his God Sister full plate of Thanksgiving food. Picked it up and ran he did. Those silly kids of mine!

Keep in mind that it is a day to be thankful. I am thankful that I have a wonderful family. I am thankful for my wonderful friends.

I am also thankful that I am allowed to study  aromatherapy and alternate medicine. There was a time when it was frowned upon. Ok so there are still a lot of people who think I am crazy. They may be right, but I am not looked at as strangely as I used to be.

We have a lot to be thankful for this year. Remember that even the small things are a reason to give thanks.

And remember this little tidbit too, Peppermint tea is great for that overfull stomach that we all get after Thanksgiving dinner!

The holiday season has begun. In many places the decorations are up and the holiday sales are in full swing. This brings on holiday stress. To many things to do and not enough time to get them all done.Learn to deal with your holiday stress the natural way without drugs from your doctor can be simple and easy.

A simple cup of chamomile tea can help take the edge off of an otherwise stressful day. Sprinkle a few drops of lavender essential oil on your pillow at night to help you get a good nights sleep. A good night sleep is one of the key factors to dealing with stress. A well rested body is better able to cope.

Like to soak in the tub? Take a few drops of lavender and chamomile essential oils and drop them in the tub. Both of these essential oils are known for their stress relief ability.

Another great stress buster during this holiday season is exercise. You don’t have to go to the gym and spend an hour on the stairmaster either. A simple 20 min walk can help you better deal with stress.

Stress comes along with the holidays. Learning to deal with it can be an essential life skill. Holidays are a time meant to be spent with family and friends. Enjoy them!