The Art of Stress free holidays!

Ayurvedic tips for staying balanced, calm and well through the holiday season

By Rippan Sandhu, Co-founder and CEO, Ayurda Wellness

It's hard to believe that Christmas is just a few weeks away. Sometimes the never-ending task list and big shopping plans can be too much. On the other hand, if you are away from family and friends or have lost a loved one this year, the celebrations can feel daunting. In both situations, it can easily become overwhelming.

According to Ayurveda, there are two types of stress that commonly develop during the holiday season. The first occurs with that long to-do list: planning, cooking, baking, shopping, unavoidable expenses and endless thoughts. All of this can create a Vata imbalance in the body and mind. If your year has been challenging and you are feeling frustrated and exhausted, a Pitta imbalance can cause aggravation in mind and body, leading to mental and emotional stress.

The holidays also bring the opportunity to focus some time on you - the most important person. Here are some tried and tested wellbeing tips to help you switch off and have a genuinely stress-free holiday season. Not sure of your dosha? Take our Skin Quiz here.

Start your day a little earlier

Wake up 30 minutes before your usual time and notice how much more easily you can work through the day's task list. A consistent daily routine - or Dinacharya - is one of the most important aspects of a stress-free day according to Ayurveda. Resist the temptation to oversleep even on weekends, as it will disrupt your natural sleep pattern. Walking barefoot on grass in the morning can also help you stay grounded and keep your Pitta in balance.

Breathe with intention

One of the great secrets of energy and rejuvenation is a purified bloodstream - and the quickest way to achieve this is through conscious breathing. Be mindful of your breath and try not to hold rigid attachments to any thoughts that arise. For added calm, keep Ayurda Shanti Oil close and use two to three times during the day.

Think practically

Stick to your planned budget and avoid overspending. Only say yes to things that genuinely make sense and bring joy to your family. Don't be afraid to turn down unrealistic requests from children, family members or friends. Know your limits and don't overstretch yourself.

Keep your spirits up

Stay worry-free and count your blessings rather than focusing on what is going wrong. Take your meals on time and keep yourself well hydrated. If you are planning to spend a lot of time outdoors, keep your skin cool and refreshed with the Ayurda Rose Mist.

Soothe emotional stress

Stay away from negativity where you can. Try to keep a relaxed outlook and avoid becoming too judgmental. Let go of painful past memories or conflicts and allow yourself a fresh start. Avoid sweet or junk foods, as they increase Ama (toxins) in the body and create physical and mental fatigue. A Pitta-pacifying diet will help keep you calm and balanced through the season.

Indulge in self-love

Give yourself a genuine break before the holiday rush begins. Make a list of nurturing things you would like to do for yourself. Create a simple self-care routine and begin each morning with an Ayurvedic self-massage using cold-pressed Black Sesame Oil before your shower.

Be flexible, be active, count your blessings and enjoy the upcoming holiday as a truly holy day.

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Rippan Sandhu

Co-founder & Brand Visionary, Ayurda

The architect of the Ayurda brand, Co-creator of Australasia's first authentic Ayurvedic skincare range, founder of the award-winning Spa Ayurda, now part of Ayurda Wellness. Certified Health Coach with a long-standing commitment to the wellbeing of women and children.

Meet Rippan