The holiday season, filled with joy and festivities for many, can be a challenging time if you’re battling Lyme disease, autoimmune disorders, mold-related illnesses, mental health issues, or any mystery illness. What might seem like minor stressors to others can knock us down for days or even weeks. But fear not, fellow warriors, because I’m here to share five transformative tricks to help you sail through this holiday season with grace, resilience, and newfound vigor.
1. Take a Breath… Literally!
Yes, we all breathe every day, but are we doing it right? If you’re a shallow or chest breather, your body might be stuck in a perpetual fight-or-flight mode, never allowing you to experience true calm. Enter box breathing, your secret weapon against stress. Start with a simple 4-count in, followed by a 4-count hold, a 4-count exhale, and another 4-count hold before breathing in again.
Do this 4 to 5 times, and as you become proficient, increase the count to 5, 6, or even 8. Consistency is key; practice this daily until it becomes second nature. Then, when life throws a curveball, you’ll remember to use this technique, and you’ll find it incredibly effective. I like to use it before I eat as it helps set my body up for better digestion by getting out of fight or flight and into rest and digest.
2. Tapping into Relief
Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) or tapping is a little gem that can work wonders for stress and anxiety. Head over to YouTube and search for tapping videos that resonate with you—whether it’s for stress, anxiety, or any other specific concern. Just like with box breathing, practice daily to build up that muscle memory. So, when a crisis arises, you’ll instinctively reach for tapping to ease your stress.
3. Connect with the Earth
Grounding, the practice of getting your bare feet on the ground for around 20 minutes or simply touching a tree, can do wonders for your well-being. Countless research papers highlight the positive health benefits of this simple act. I once sent my stepson outside for just 10 minutes of grounding, and he returned a transformed individual. Nature has a magical way of healing and rejuvenating us—take advantage of it. And it is FREE
4. Embrace Fresh Air and Movement
A leisurely walk outdoors for as little as 20 minutes a day can do wonders for your brain, mental health, and detox pathways. Our lymphatic system, responsible for clearing toxins, doesn’t work effectively when we’re stationary. So, don your comfortable shoes, breathe in the fresh air, and let your body move. It’s a small investment with big returns for your overall well-being.
5. Amino Acid Therapy
For those seeking an extra edge in managing stress and preventing meltdowns, consider amino acid therapy. Supplements like 5 HTP and GABA can be really helpful. I have recently started using Methylene Blue and am very excited with the results. These supplements can support your neurotransmitters and make a significant difference during challenging times. If you’re interested in learning more, feel free to reach out to me for additional information.
Bonus!! I ask the host or hostess what is on the menu, and I bring myself the substitute I know I can eat. I do not count on them to make sure I am safe. Planning ahead makes the difference between success and a painful week from eating the wrong foods.
Don’t wait until you’re in the midst of a stressful situation to implement these strategies. Set yourself up for success by incorporating these practices into your daily routine. Remember, there is always hope, and you have the strength to navigate the holiday season and beyond. Don’t give up; you’ve got this!
Check out this older blog I did on the controversy surrounding chronic Lyme. Now the CDC actually recognizes chronic Lyme what a gift https://thelymeboss.com/the-controversy-surrounding-chronic-lyme-disease/
Make sure to check out how to tap here https://youtu.be/TnbRcO43CD8?si=JOBeBNxJysoYBEwp
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