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Help for Holiday Stress



With the holidays right around the corner and the stress that can come with them, it is important to remember to take time out for yourself. Here are five ways you can relax and recharge so you can have balance and energy this season.

  • Take a short walk outside. When your day starts to get stressful, breathing the fresh, cool outdoor air and moving your body will energize and refresh you.
  • Set the timer for 1 hour each day and do something that feeds your soul. Grab a book, sip a cup of tea, call a friend or just sit and daydream. Make this date with yourself and stick to it.
  • Move your body for 30 minutes each day. With the bustle of the season, it is easy to skip workouts to get all of the things on your to-do list done. Exercise helps our bodies to better handle and manage stress. Even if you can’t fit in a whole workout, try to commit to at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day. 
  • Prepare a healthy meal. During the hectic holiday season, it is easy to grab unhealthy food while on-the-go. Unhealthy, empty calories will surely drain your energy and make it difficult to get through your day. Plan ahead for meals, incorporating plenty of whole foods, fruits, vegetables, quality proteins and whole grains
  • Take a relaxing, warm bath. At the end of your busy day, turn off the TV, radio and cell phones and slip into a warm tub escape for 15 minutes. A warm bath can soak away a stressful day.
What other ways do you find balance during the holidays?

Healthy Fall Comfort Food


The weather has turned chilly - must be time for chili! Check out this deliciously different and healthy Pumpkin Black Bean Chili recipe from Gracious Pantry.

We gave it a try and are certainly hooked! It is the perfect combination of hearty, with a touch of sweet and spicy. Plus, it is loaded with nutrition and fiber. Definitely a fall favorite comfort food!

Stay warm!