As the holiday season approaches, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. There's shopping to do, parties to attend, and meals to prepare. But in the midst of all this activity, it's important to take some time for yourself. Rest is a vital form of self-care, and it's especially important during this time of year.
When we don't get enough rest, our bodies and minds start to suffer. We may experience fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. We may also be more susceptible to illness. Rest allows our bodies to heal and repair themselves, and it gives our minds a chance to recharge.
There are many different ways to rest. Some people enjoy taking a nap, while others prefer to read a book, take a walk, or spend time in nature. Some people find that yoga or meditation helps them to relax and de-stress. There is no right or wrong way to rest, as long as you are doing something that you find enjoyable and relaxing.
Here are a few tips for incorporating yoga and Ayurveda into your rest routine:
Practice restorative yoga. Restorative yoga is a gentle form of yoga that uses props to support the body in deep relaxation.
Do some gentle yoga poses before bed. Certain yoga poses, such as Child's Pose and Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose, can help to calm the mind and body and prepare you for sleep.
Take an Ayurvedic self-massage. Abhyanga is an Ayurvedic self-massage that uses warm oil to massage the body. This practice can help to improve circulation, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
Drink a warm cup of herbal tea before bed. Certain herbs, such as chamomile and lavender, have calming and relaxing properties.
The holiday season can be a busy time of year, but it's also a time to celebrate and enjoy time with loved ones. Make sure to schedule some time for yourself to rest and recharge. This could mean taking a few days off from work, taking naps, or simply spending some time alone doing something you enjoy.
Here are a few tips for leaning into the holiday season as a time to rest:
Set boundaries. It's okay to say no to social events or other commitments if you need to take some time for yourself.
Delegate tasks. If you have a lot on your plate, ask for help from your family and friends.
Take breaks. If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a few minutes to step away from whatever you're doing and relax.
Listen to your body. If you're feeling tired, don't be afraid to take a nap or go to bed early.
Rest is essential for our overall health and well-being. By making time to rest during the holiday season, you can set yourself up for a happy and healthy new year.
You can join the upcoming Revitalize Your Body & Mind: a 6 week online yoga course to provide you with stress relief and self care as we head into the holiday season. We begin on Monday November 6th!