The holidays can be an especially stressful time. In business, we are planning for the year ahead while working to finish the year strong. At home, on top of every day responsibilities we are also planning parties, hosting family get togethers, shopping for gifts, and traveling. Many practices within Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine can be very calming.
From a beautiful form of active meditation, to an herbal formula called Xiao Yao San, here are 3 ways to find calm during the holidays:
1. Incorporate QiGong into Your Health Routine
The National Qigong Associations defines Qigong as "a mind-body-spirit practice that improves one's mental and physical health by integrating posture, movement, breathing technique, self-massage, sound, and focused intent."
DAO Labs Ambassador Nick Loffree says of his Qigong practice:
"...with Qigong, granted me all the positive effects of deep breathing and meditation, without making me sit still in a position or wearing off my body. The movements were gentle, soft, and deeply nourishing. The practice was subtle, but the results were profound. Suddenly I was just a 10-20 minute practice away from replacing my anxiety, depression, and fatigue with centeredness, calm, clarity, and vitality."
Why wasn't everyone doing this?!"
2. Make an Extra Visit to See an Acupuncturist
Psychology Today states, "Our growing body of evidence points to acupuncture's protective effect against the stress response. ... However, evidence makes it clear: acupuncture plays a vital role in combating depression, anxiety, and stress. The experience of acupuncture is, for most of my patients, quite pleasant and relaxing."
At DAO Labs, we don't need science to know acupuncture can help reduce stress - we've written extensively about the benefits that we personally notice from acupuncture.
Even a person who regularly sees an acupuncturist will benefit from an extra appointment or too specifically to reduce stress around the holidays.
3. Keep these Chinese Herbs in Your Back Pocket, Literally
In Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine theory, Xiao Yao San (the formula behind our Emotional Balance) translates to "Free and Easy Wanderer" and can be a powerful tool to stay calm in times of stress. It's been shown to combat stress, and is widely prescribed in Chinese medicine because of its versatility.
This formula can be taken as a preventative when there might be added stress (a difficult meeting or extra time with the in-laws for example), or it can be taken when you're feeling irritable. For many, effects are often felt almost immediately.
Although Chinese herbal medicine is effective, it can be hard to get started and to incorporate into your wellness routines. DAO Labs offers a unique approach: our Emotional Balance formula is powerful, with built-in convenience to keep in your purse or desk. Just add room temperature or cold water, and you'll find yourself expertly dealing with added stress.
Are you interested in trying Emotional Balance this holiday season? Use code BALANCE at checkout and save 15% today.
