Simple exercises, such as meditation, qi gong, Tai Chi, or breathing techniques, are powerful tools to help calm an overworked nervous system. Specifically, the 4-7-8 breathing method is a valuable technique to help reduce stress and improve sleep quality. It is a controlled approach to breathing that works to activate the sympathetic nervous system and calm heart rate. 

What Is The 4-7-8 Breathing Method?

The 4-7-8 breathing method is quite simple, entailing a rhythmic pattern that requires you to:

• Inhale for four seconds
• Hold your breath for seven seconds
• Exhale through your mouth for eight seconds

Some practitioners refer to the 4-7-8 breathing method as “relaxing breath,” and it helps to quiet the mind and bring the body into a more balanced state. The slow, controlled breathing pattern may help to:

• Shift the body out of its stress response and lower the heart rate to support relaxation by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. 
• Support mindfulness and improve focus by anchoring your attention to a specific pattern. 
• Regulate your breath, since many people have chronically shallow breathing habits. By shifting to deep, intentional breathing, you can counteract that. 
• Reduce feelings of anxiety and enhance respiratory efficiency by improving carbon dioxide tolerance. 

How To Practice The 4-7-8 Breathing Method

Below is a simple step-by-step guide on how to correctly perform the 4-7-8 breathing method: 

• Sit up straight or lie down and make yourself comfortable.
• Relax your jaw and place the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth behind your upper teeth. 
• Inhale through your nose for four seconds. 
• Gently hold this breath for seven seconds.
• Exhale through your mouth for eight seconds, letting the air out with an audible “whoosh.”
• Repeat this for a total of four times, and you can work up to eight cycles as you get more comfortable with the technique. 

Supports Better Sleep

A lot of people use the 4-7-8 breathing method as a natural way to fall asleep by settling the nervous system. One study involving 64 healthy adults found that doing a slow-paced breathing intervention for 30 days (about 15 minutes every night) significantly improved sleep quality. The practice also increased nighttime cardiac vagal activity (high-frequency heart-rate variability) compared to the controlled group. 

A small study observed 14 people with self-reported insomnia and 14 good sleepers. Researchers found that one 20-minute session of slow-paced breathing before sleep reduced sleep-onset latency and decreased  the number of night wakings. The effects were correlated with increased heart rate variability. Those small studies suggest that controlled breathing, such as the 4-7-8 breathing method, before bed may shift the autonomic nervous system into a parasympathetic response to calm the body. 

Helps Lower Heart Rate To Aid Relaxation

People who practice the 4-7-8 breathing method report that they feel noticeably calmer within minutes. That is because longer exhales naturally stimulate a relaxing response. One study of 43 healthy young adults (ages 19 to 25) tested the immediate effects of the 4-7-8 breathing method. The participants did six cycles per set for a total of three sets. After they completed the sets, they experienced a significant decrease in heart rate and systolic blood pressure. Researchers also noted that participants showed increases in heart rate variability, indicating that the breathing technique shifted the autonomic nervous system toward a relaxed state. 

Helps Reduce Anxiety And Stress

By slowing the breath and lengthening the exhale, you can increase vagus nerve activity, which quiets the body’s fight-or-flight response. In a randomized, controlled trial of 90 bariatric surgery patients, researchers compared routine care, a deep breathing program, and the 4-7-8 breathing method after surgery. The 4-7-8 breathing method showed significant reductions in anxiety scores on post-test measures compared to both the control and deep breathing groups. 

Another study involved 22 sleep-deprived people and 21 healthy sleepers. Participants performed three sets of the 4-7-8 breathing method (six cycles per set). Once they completed the exercise, both heart rate and systolic blood pressure decreased, as did high-frequency heart rate variability. Additionally, another randomized controlled trial showed that slow-paced deep breathing for 20 minutes per day for four weeks reduced perceived stress and increased heart rate variability.

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Where is the fountain of youth? Is it hiding at the bottom of your salad bowl? Perhaps it is within your spirulina wellness shot or at the end of a good night’s sleep. People think that genetics primarily influence life expectancy, but the reality is that genes play a much smaller role than people think. As it turns out, environmental factors like diet and lifestyle habits play bigger roles. In this article, we cover various habits to form right now to help you live a longer life. 

Stay Physically Active

The more you move now, the better your chances are of maintaining that mobility into your older age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults engage in 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity every week. You can also do some strength training a couple days a week to maintain muscle mass. Regular exercise may help you achieve:

• Weight loss
• Improved mood
• Reduced risk of developing chronic health conditions

Prioritize What Makes You Happy

Happiness does not get enough attention when it comes to your health. How happy you feel can make a big difference on your mental health, physical health, and longevity. A 2023 study found that happiness was significantly associated with living longer. Study authors suggested that happiness alone will not add years to your life. It can help, so long as you couple it with other factors that contribute to optimal mental and physical health. Make sure to set aside time to do things that bring you joy, be it drawing, reading, bowling, calling people, or playing video games. You can also keep a gratitude journal to help increase levels of happiness and optimism. 

Nurture Your Social Circle

Research suggests that a healthy social network can contribute to a longer life and better health. A strong social circle may also help you react in a less negative way to stress, which may explain its effect on longevity. Offering your support to others may increase your happiness and sense of purpose. Always remember to both accept care from friends and family and offer it in return whenever you can. 

Eat A Balanced Diet

These days, there are diets that offer support to the brain, heart, joints, gut, and overall health. Generally speaking, dietitians encourage people to increase their intake of plant foods, as they may decrease the risk of diseases and promote overall health. Many studies link a plant-based diet to a lower risk of premature death, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and more. Focus on consuming a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. 

Avoid Smoking

It shouldn’t even have to be said, and yet it does. Nicotine is highly accessible and addictive, especially when you consider the popularity of flavored vapes, nicotine pouches, and traditional cigarettes. Smoking increases the risk of lung cancer, being responsible for about 90% of cases. It also increases the risk of stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, and other cancers. Smoking damages nearly every organ in the body, affecting everything from lung function to reproductive health. Quit smoking, if you do smoke, to help reduce your risk of life-threatening disease. It’s never too late to quit. 

Try To Avoid Chronic Stress And Anxiety

It’s almost a guarantee that you will encounter some stress, and perhaps some anxiety, at some point in life. A 2024 review found that chronic stress and anxiety can increase the risk of developing conditions like heart disease. The review also found that men are more likely to experience chronic stress and anxiety compared to women. If you regularly experience stress or anxiety and find that it interferes with your everyday life, consider speaking with a mental health professional. They may help you establish a treatment plan to help reduce stressors for ultimate relief. 

Longevity may ultimately see out of your control, but a lot of healthy habits may help you thrive well into your old age. Following a plant-based diet, quitting smoking, reducing stress, exercising regularly, and even getting enough sleep can help you live a long and healthy life.

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Considering that you spend one-third of your life sleeping, make it a point to ensure that it is quality sleep as much as you can. Unfortunately, many people find it difficult to fall and stay asleep. If you find yourself staring at your ceiling at two in the morning on a regular basis, certain nighttime habits may be preventing you from getting quality sleep. 

What Is Sleep Hygiene?

There is oral hygiene, personal hygiene, and now there’s sleep hygiene? Yes, exactly correct. Sleep hygiene refers to a set of habits that encourage a good night’s sleep. Adopting certain habits can help regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, or internal “clock” that controls sleep and wakefulness. Sleep hygiene plays a crucial role in maintaining mental and physical health, in addition to overall quality of life. You may engage in certain practices or behaviors, either during the day or at night, to help promote better sleep. Continue reading to learn sleep hygiene tips that may lead to more restful sleep. 

Exercise Regularly

Studies show that as little as 10 minutes of walking per day can improve sleep quality. Exercising outside further enhances the benefits by exposing you to natural light, which works to regulate your sleep cycle. If you cannot exercise outside, do not stress yourself into an anxiety spiral. Indoor exercise is also beneficial, but avoid exercising three hours before bedtime, as physical activity can increase wakefulness, making it more difficult to fall asleep. Should you want to engage in movement closer to bedtime, consider yoga, stretching, or Tai Chi. 

Make Your Sleep Environment Work For You

Your sleep environment can either make it easier or harder to fall asleep. Typically, a bedroom that is between 65 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for restful sleep. Additionally, make sure you have a comfortable mattress, pillows, and bed sheets. The more comfortable you are, the easier it is to fall and stay asleep. Too much light in the bedroom can also make it harder to fall asleep, so consider investing in blackout curtains or an eye mask to ensure darkness. 

Use Your Bed For Sleep

It can be very tempting to read, work, watch TV, or have phone calls in your bed if it is very comfortable. Try to reserve your bed for sleeping and sexual intercourse. That may actually strengthen your brain’s association between your bed and sleep, so you can fall asleep more easily. Even though reading can help you fall asleep, you may want to try reading on the couch before moving to your bed in case your mind is excited by the book and you cannot fall asleep. 

Manage Stress Before You Go To Sleep

You should never go to bed worrying about things that can keep you awake. To help alleviate some of that stress and worry, consider the following habits: 

• Write down your tasks or worries to get them out of your head. Prioritize what you have to do tomorrow, or the rest of the week, and then try your best to relax. Perhaps outline a plan to get these things done because seeing it on paper helps you see it through. 
• Experiment with meditation, be it in silence or guided via an online video or app on your phone. Meditation can help calm the mind, even if the practice only lasts for five to 10 minutes. 
• Consider sleeping with a weighted blanket, as it can help people with anxiety and insomnia fall and stay asleep. 

Keep A Consistent Sleep Schedule

Going to bed and waking up at the same (or thereabouts) every day, even on the weekends, can help reinforce the body’s sleep cycle. That makes it easier for you to fall asleep and wake up every day. When you stick to a consistent schedule, you can also reduce daytime sleepiness. Just make sure that the bedtime you choose allows you to get between seven to nine hours of sleep every night. 

Create A Relaxing Bedtime Routine

Help yourself unwind by developing a routine that gets you ready for bed. Allow one hour for your bedtime routine because that allows you enough time to do a few different things that relax you. Here are a few examples:

• Meditate, even for five to 10 minutes, to help calm the body and mind. You can set an intention during your practice to make it more effective and help you focus. 
• Listen to soothing or relaxing music while focusing on your breath. There are many playlists on streaming platforms that help induce sleep. 
• Reading a book can be a great way to relax, but avoid using electronic devices that emit blue light, as that can keep you awake. 
• Engage in some gentle stretching to relax the muscles and release tension. You can also try restorative yoga, which works to relax the mind and body.

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Can too much stress in your life cause sickness? This was once thought to be a wellness cliché, but a growing body of research suggests that there may be real truth behind this theory. Chronic stress not only affects how you feel on an emotional level, but it also alters immune function on a cellular level. Ultimately, that changes how well the body defends itself against foreign invaders, such as bacteria, viruses, pollutants, and other germs. 

A recent study published in Frontiers in Immunology found that insomnia and anxiety were linked to significantly lower levels of natural killer (NK) cells. These cells are among the immune system’s first line of defense. Findings indicated that the more severe the anxiety, the steeper the decline in NK cells. That means that stress and anxiety may actively thin your immune system’s army, in a way, making you more susceptible to illness. 

What Are NK Cells And What Do They Do?

NK cells belong to the innate immune system, which you can think of as the body’s rapid-response team. These cells monitor blood and tissues, identifying and destroying damaged, infected, or abnormal cells before problems arise. There are two subtypes of NK cells:

• CD16+CD56dim cells: These cells make up the majority of NK cells and are very cytotoxic, which means that they directly destroy harmful cells. 
• CD16+CD56high cells: These cells assist with regulating immune signaling and inflammation. 
• If NK cell numbers decline too much, the immune system may find it difficult to both contain infections and abnormal cell growth in the early stages. That ultimately raises long-term health risks. 

What Did The Study Reveal?

To begin, researchers examined 60 female university students aged 17 to 23. Participants completely validated questionnaires, assessing self-reported anxiety and symptoms of insomnia. They also provided blood samples in order for researchers to measure different NK cell populations. 

Researchers noted that mental health responses were very bleak, with 75% of participants reporting anxiety symptoms. Roughly 17% and 13% of participants fell into moderate and severe categories. Additionally, 53% of the participants experienced sleep difficulties that researchers found consistent with insomnia. Besides these startling findings, researchers noted that blood samples revealed a much clearer picture:

• The severity of anxiety mattered, with mild anxiety showing minimal, non-significant changes. Moderate to severe anxiety was associated with a notable reduction of NK cells. 
• Students who reported anxiety symptoms exhibited both lower numbers and lower percentages of NK cells, including cytotoxic types. 
• In students who reported sleep disturbances, higher anxiety scores revealed an even greater decline in total peripheral NK cells. 

An Important Note

The study focused on young women between the ages of 17 and 23. Sleep disorders and anxiety are rising the fastest in this age group. Although that makes the findings relevant, it also limits how broadly they can be applied. Researchers need future studies across different ages, sexes, and regions in order to fully understand how stress affects immune function. 

The Takeaway

Stress is not just something that lives in the mind. The constant edge that you cannot shake or racing thoughts may reshape the immune system and how it functions, leaving your body more vulnerable to illness. This study serves to remind people that having stress management practices can help your emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing. Allow your whole body to flourish in the immediate and long-term when you get your stress under control.

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For a lot of people, the hype of the holidays can bring a lot of excitement, joy, and lots of nostalgia. For others, the holiday season can bring up past trauma, estranged relationships, and feelings of loneliness. Even if that isn’t the case, the holidays are like an emotional rollercoaster. You go from intense levels of holiday activities to very low energy, which can seem like peace, but the emotional result is often depression.

What Are The Post-Holiday Blues?

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the holiday blues are characterized by feelings of anxiety and stress that stem from a variety of reasons. A 2015 survey found that about 64% of people reported that they experienced the post-holiday blues. Financial stress, an inability to make it home for the holidays, and the emotional whirlwind of emotions after the holidays finish can all cause bouts of depression. Plus, seasonal depression is more common than you think, with about 14% of American adults experiencing the winter blues. 

If you are dealing with feelings of stress or depression, please understand that you are not alone. There are many ways to manage your symptoms and get the help you need. The post-holiday blues can affect people who may or may not be dealing with depression already. The following signs are common indicators of post-holiday blues:

• Activities are more difficult than normal
• Difficulty getting out of bed or struggling to make food
• Feeling more tired than usual
• Having trouble concentrating
• Losing interest in things that used to bring you joy

Don’t let the post-holiday blues control your life. Take action and manage your mental health, working through your feelings to start anew. We hope that the following tips help you beat the post-holiday blues. 

Get Out Of The House

Cut the atmosphere of being in a house that doesn’t have any holiday activities or aromas by getting out of your home. Even on a gray or snowy day, step outside to raise your energy levels. If it is really cold where you are, make sure to bundle up so as not to freeze. You can combine your outing by meeting a friend at a local coffee shop. Consider chatting with the cashier at the grocery store, the mail carrier, or even the gas station attendant. Getting out of your house is a great way to interrupt the winter blues. 

Limit Your Alcohol Intake

Drinking and the holidays seem to be quite synonymous, especially during holiday celebrations. The intake of libations tends to continue long after the celebrations come to a close, though. Because alcohol is a depressant, it can only enhance feelings of sadness, especially if you are alone. Drinking to excess can affect your mood and amplify any negative feelings, even if you push them down deep. Avoid alcohol if you can and consider doing something productive, like taking down decorations, getting rid of old clothes, or volunteer at a local shelter to help out those in need.

Talk To Someone Verbally

It’s easy to send a text, direct message, or email, but it means so much more when you communicate verbally. Think about someone that you enjoy being around or care about and call that person on the phone. Rather than complaining about your mood, ask them how they are doing. What was the best part of their holiday weekend, or where did they have the most fun? If you feel that someone may not answer their phone, you can send a text saying that you want to chat for a few minutes. 

Reread Greeting Cards

Greeting cards, or holiday cards, are not as common as they used to be, but people still send them and they can bring a smile to your face. We aren’t going to lie: some greeting cards are bland and boring. For every few bad greeting cards, you get a great one that you hopefully save. When the holidays are over, bust out the greeting cards to reread them and figure out which ones are your favorites. Don’t ruminate in your depression when you can easily brighten your spirits by reading words from a friend, family member, or loved one. 

Slide Out Of The Holidays

If you are going to sit on the couch and watch TV or do another activity, make sure that it is not holiday-related. It may not seem likely, but you can easily go down the rabbit hole of what you just lost. Take care of your mental health by taking your mind off the holidays and directing your gaze toward the new year. There are many things to do to wrap up the year! Consider getting a head start on your health goals, or start cleaning to have a neat and tidy home for New Year’s Day.

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The holiday season is a time of celebration, joy, connection, and inevitable stress. Busier schedules, elaborate meals, office parties, end-of-year projects, shorter days, and family dynamics can be quite overwhelming. All of these things can make it tricky to successfully navigate the holiday season. 

In an effort to help you eat wisely, prioritize mental health, and support your mood, we have a holiday survival guide. Hopefully, it helps you make it through the holiday season without burning out. You got this! 

Stress-Relieving Tips

Anyone who has encountered the holidays as an adult understands that stress is a real thing. Behavioral health experts encourage people to give themselves permission to simplify whenever possible. Are you being stretched too thin? Follow this self-care guide to keep your sanity this holiday season: 

• Set a spending plan because financial strain is one of the top causes of holiday stress and anxiety.
• Ask for help because there is no need to carry the weight of the holiday season alone. 
• Say “no” when you have to because saying “no” means that you are setting healthy boundaries. You do not have to attend every event. Take time for yourself to prevent a burnout.
• Take five minutes here and there to help reset yourself. Mindfulness practices such as deep breathing, journaling, or short walks can help reset the nervous system. 

Mental Health And The Holidays

The holidays can be a very joyful experience, but they can also bring about feelings of pain and loneliness. The “holiday blues” are very normal, whether you are managing a family conflict or dealing with your own loneliness. Having some coping mechanisms can help you understand when to seek care. When you find yourself in the darkness, use the following tips to help find some light:

• A short little walk outside goes a long way 
• Listen to music that makes you feel good and lifts your spirits
• Seek natural light, or utilize artificial light when necessary
• Experiment with a gratitude journal
• Try box breathing, meditation, or a yoga practice

If you notice that the holiday blues are not going away, or your symptoms are worsening, consider professional help. Persistent struggles may indicate a more significant situation, such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Talk to your care provider if:

• Grief feels overwhelming
• You think you may have SAD
• Stress or general sadness is affecting daily life
• Your child shows signs of anxiety
• You have difficulty maintaining regular eating patterns

Healthy Eating During The Holidays

The holidays are both a festive and glutenous time. Special meals, traditions, parties, and more inspire eating copious amounts of unhealthy foods. Instead of viewing your meals through a “naughty” or “nice” lens, focus on balancing your diet. Keep the following in mind when you enjoy meals with family or friends this holiday season. 

Keep Your Goals In Mind

In order to avoid going off the deep end during the holidays, registered dietitians encourage keeping health goals in mind. It’s easy to abandon everything and think that you will just “fix it” in the new year when resolutions are fresh. Don’t skip meals; rather, eat regularly during the day to avoid overeating. Focus on meals that are rich in lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Feel free to enjoy your holiday treats in moderation instead of restricting entirely. Allowing yourself to have some treats will keep you from overdoing it. Lastly, slow down and focus on enjoying what you are eating. Mindful eating can keep you on the healthy path!

Avoid The Food Morality Mindset

If you label foods as “junk” or “bad,” you can experience guilt, restriction, or overeating as a result. Food has no moral value and you do not need to earn or burn off holiday treats. Focus on memories associated with holiday foods. A pie is not typically healthy, but making the pie and eating it together is a joyous experience. Take a step back, consider the positives that come from different foods, and reshape how you think about those foods without moral judgment. 

Be Patient With Yourself And Loved Ones

The holidays can worsen eating disorder behaviors or triggers for a lot of people. This is not something to take likely, considering over 30 million Americans have suffered from an eating disorder at some point during their lives. The holidays can increase stress, trigger anxiety, and cause emotional strain, all of which increase these eating disorder symptoms. If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, encourage open conversation and get help when necessary.

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A new poll from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that a dark cloud of stress is looming over the upcoming holiday season. Americans are sweating about the economy, so the stress is more amplified than in years past. The most recent Healthy Minds poll from the APA is just one out of a series of polls to track public sentiment on mental health issues year round. 

The latest results come from online interviews that the APA conducted. These interviews took place over two days (November 4th & 5th, 2025), and included more than 2,200 adults. There was a margin of error plus or minus two percentage points for these interviews. 

What Is The Biggest Overall Concern?

After analyzing the interviews, researchers found that 75% of all respondents stated that they are very or somewhat anxious about the economy. Close behind that number one concern was healthcare, with 71% saying that they are somewhat or very anxious about that. When the respondents were specifically asked about the upcoming holidays, 41% stated they anticipate more seasonal stress this year compared to years past. That percentage is a significant increase since 2024, which had 28%, and 2023, which had 23%. 

The report suggests that 48% of participants were most worried about missing a loved one or experiencing grief. About 46% of participants expressed worry about affording holiday gifts. Researchers noted that one-third of the participants cited concerns about family dynamics or feeling lonely. The poll concluded that one in five participants said that end-of-year holidays have a negative impact on their mental health. 

There Is A Bright Side

Nearly 50% of the participants said that the holiday season is a generally positive experience for their mental health. The experience of seeing family and friends, eating delicious food, and giving and receiving gifts were among the top activities participants looked forward to the most. And even though some people dread the holiday season, which can come with some level of stress, it is a time for familial connections, fun, and fellowship. Make the holiday season something to look forward to. After all, research shows that being future-oriented is positive for your mental health. 

These Results Do Not Surprise Experts

Mental health experts note that anxiety is one of the most commonly-experienced conditions for adults in the United States. For this reason, the results of the poll are not surprising. Political stress, toxic news cycles, and comparing oneself to unrealistic depictions seen on social media are just a few common causes of anxiety. Additionally, more people feel more comfortable now reporting their experience with anxiety, which also explains the increase in numbers from previous years. 

Holiday-induced anxiety can creep up around this time of year, regardless of whatever else is happening. Anxiety tends to show up subtly and may reveal itself through irritability, difficulty concentrating, or tension in the body. Those symptoms occur long before it becomes overwhelming. 

Can You Manage Holiday Stress? 

The best thing to do if you experience holiday stress is to ask for help. By seeking support from your family members or friends, you can help delegate tasks and lighten your emotional load. It’s also important to simplify your to-do list, as differentiating between necessary obligations and optional tasks can free up some time. Practice gratitude because that’s what the holiday season is truly about. People with regular gratitude practices, such as writing in a gratitude journal, tend to experience more positive physical and emotional benefits. Lastly, if anxiety is too intense or long-lasting, consider professional support. You do not need to tackle it alone, and even the act of seeking help tends to lift a little weight off your shoulders.

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For millions of Americans, Thanksgiving Day is a whirlwind of a day. It involves a lot of cooking time, a marathon of eating, and time spent with loved ones. Maybe you turn on the Macy’s parade or watch some football games before you pile on the calories. However you celebrate this holiday, one thing is for certain: about 70% of the American population feels stressed about the holiday’s arrival. 

Thanksgiving can induce stress for a variety of reasons. If you are in charge of cooking the meal, you have a lot of prep work today for the arrival of your guests. That can be quite stressful, but it’s also possible to feel anxiety or strong emotions about going to Thanksgiving dinner at a relative’s house. Maybe you had to take two flights and an Uber in peak holiday travel to make it. Perhaps you just have anxiety about aunts and uncles asking about your employment. Whatever the case, there are many things that can induce stress over this feast of a holiday. Fortunately, there are also strategies that can help you manage stress, and we detail them below.

Consume To Enjoy And Don’t Eat Your Feelings

The Thanksgiving spread is full of calorically dense, rich entrees, sides, and desserts. We are not here to dissuade a generally healthy person from an extra spoonful of gravy or an additional slice of pie. Are you enjoying an extra serving just to do so, or is a fully loaded second plate your way of coping with feelings of stress or anxiety? Overeating and over-drinking are unhealthy coping mechanisms that are all too common around the holidays. Consume festive food with people out of merriment, not to bury negative feelings. 

Set Boundaries

If you want to avoid stress and anxiety around Thanksgiving, or any holiday celebration with family, make sure to set boundaries regarding certain discussion topics. For whatever reason, there is always one family member that likes to stir the pot. Perhaps they bring up who they voted for or what their foreign policy opinions are. There will likely be a lot of election anxiety, as a result of the aftermath, and opinions are stronger than ever. Set a boundary by sending a loving email requesting that everyone leave their political opinions at the door for Thanksgiving. Request that you do not want to talk about any religious, socioeconomic, or other issues that are touchy subjects. Keep the conversation light-hearted and loving to keep stress levels down.

Embrace Gratitude

There is great power in gratitude. Being thankful for things that are good in life, even the smallest things, can lead to mental health improvements. According to one analysis of 70 studies, there is an association between higher levels of gratitude and lower levels of depression. The same report found that reaffirming gratitude for 15 minutes per day, five times per week, can enhance mental awareness. A separate meta-analysis of 64 randomized trials found that participants who underwent gratitude interventions experienced fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. Try your best to express gratitude on a day that represents being thankful. If you do not wish to speak your feelings of gratitude out loud with family, consider writing in a gratitude journal and reflect on it around Christmas or the New Year. 

Be Mindful Of Your Triggers

There are certain people and situations that just seem to push your buttons like no other. This is especially true during the holiday season. As you enter Thanksgiving, be mindful of this and recognize your potential triggers before you encounter them. That way, you can practice coping skills and prepare how you will react to those triggers. You can reframe your thoughts, employ progressive muscle relaxation, or use breathing techniques to help reduce anxiety and stress. A few common triggers are:

• Excessive crowds in shopping centers and grocery stores
• Travel issues, including flight delays and accommodation struggles
• Issues that come about when you host Thanksgiving
• Interactions and disagreements with certain family members

Exercise

Fatigue and laziness often accompany Thanksgiving stress and anxiety. Stave off your lethargy by incorporating or increasing exercise into the days leading up to the big feast. You are not trying to burn extra calories so that you can eat more; rather, the goal of exercising is to promote mental wellness. Exercise helps to trigger a brain-body response through the healthy release of dopamine. When you exercise outdoors, that dopamine release is combined with an increase in serotonin, a feel-good neurotransmitter that may help reduce anxiety and stress.

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The average person spends approximately one-third of their life sleeping. Assuming you live to 70 years old, that’s about 23 years of sleeping, so it is important, to say the least. During sleep, the body has a chance to health and rejuvenate. Without proper rest, you will likely not feel your best, which can also trigger you to make unhealthy decisions, from the food you eat to lack of exercise. 

If you cannot sleep or experience difficulty falling asleep on a regular basis, you may require some natural sleep aids. Tens of millions of people experience difficulty focusing due to lack of sleep. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that millions of people nod off while driving. 

Fortunately, you do not have to let sleep get the better of you any longer. You can make some simple lifestyle changes, such as using natural sleep aid options that help you feel more refreshed. Additionally, being in sync with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, the circadian rhythm, can also help improve overall sleep. In addition to experimenting with the following sleep aids, consider establishing a consistent bedtime routine, avoiding caffeine too late in the day, and getting away from screens too close to bedtime. 

Magnesium

Studies confirm that people who are deficient in magnesium have more difficulty falling and staying asleep. Alternatively, people with higher magnesium levels tend to experience deeper sleep. That is especially true when sufficient magnesium intake is coupled with calcium intake, as calcium optimizes magnesium absorption. If you need help getting more magnesium in your diet, consider the following food ideas and combinations:

• Banana with almonds 
• Steel cut oats with dark cherries
• Kefir with turmeric and cinnamon
• Chamomile, passion flower, and valerian tea
• Avocados
• Crackers with almond butter
• Pumpkin seeds
• Dark chocolate

Valerian Root

According to research, valerian root exhibits relaxing and sedative effects. Typically, it is used in combination with chamomile, especially in relaxing tea blends. Valerian works to increase the amount of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps calm nerve cells in the brain. The Dherbs Nerve Formula contains valerian root for that exact reason, as it helps calm the nervous system. GABA also works to block Brian signals that cause anxiety.

St. John’s Wort

Depression is one of the most common conditions that can cause lack of sleep. Studies suggest that St. John’s wort, which contains adhyperforin and hyperforin, may drive mood and work as powerful as antidepressants. The National Sleep Foundation reported that insomnia is also common among depressed people. People who have insomnia are also at a higher risk for developing depression. Research shows that using St. John’s wort to treat depression may lead to more restful sleep.

Lavender

Well-known for its calming properties, lavender essential oil may help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. A randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the effects of lavender and sleep hygiene practices versus sleep hygiene alone on sleep quality. Study authors separate the 79 college student participants with sleep troubles into two groups. Both of the groups practiced strong sleep hygiene and one of the groups wore an inhalation chest patch with lavender. The study took place over five days, with a two-week follow-up. The group with the lavender chest patch improved sleep quality. 

Chamomile

Similar to lavender, chamomile is also known for its calming effects. Drinking chamomile tea or taking it as a supplement can help you relax and fall asleep more easily. A 2015 study involved 80 Taiwanese postnatal women with poor sleep quality. The researchers split them into two groups, one of which drank chamomile tea for two weeks, while the other was a control group. The chamomile group demonstrated significantly lower scores of physical-symptoms-related sleep inefficiency. Researchers noted that the chamomile group, while the effects were positive, were only limited to the immediate term. 

Passion Flower

Not only does anxiety affect how you sleep, but it also affects the brain’s ability to turn off. Passion flower provides a calming effect that may help an anxious person’s circle of thought. Clinical trials confirm that passion flower can reduce anxiety as effectively as benzodiazepine oxazepam, a commonly prescribed anxiety medication. A four-week, double-blind study of people with general anxiety disorder compared passion flower to that drug. Although oxazepam worked a little faster, passion flower was equally as effective. That confirms that passion flower is a powerful anti-anxiety aid that may in turn benefit sleep. 

Essential Oils

There are many essential oils that help calm the mind and body, and most of them do not cause adverse reactions. One study on cancer patients, a common group with sleep issues, aimed to understand if aromatherapy using essential oils could help them achieve better sleep. Each patient received aroma sticks over a 13-week period. Of the participants, 94% reported using the aroma sticks, while 92% reported that they would continue to use them. Of the essential oils, bergamot, frankincense, lavender, mandarin, and sandalwood essential oils proved most effective for aiding sleep.

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Please allow us to talk about breasts for a minute. Not in the inappropriate way, but in a real grown-up, lived-in body way. Between raising children, entering a new mid-life chapter, or dealing with the bodily changes that come with aging, it can be hard to take care of yourself…and your boobs. 

Why Use Castor Oil For Breast Health?

By applying castor oil to breast tissue, you can help support overall breast wellness. A castor oil pack on the breasts can promote circulation and lymphatic flow, both of which help nourish and detox breast tissue. The theory, then, is that castor oil may help repair and maintain breast tissue. As of now, though, there is no scientific evidence that supports these claims. They are merely anecdotal and women have been applying castor oil packs to their breasts for centuries. 

Shea Butter

Shea butter is an all-purpose bag that can help nourish the skin and hair, regardless of the time of year. It works to soften, protect, and smooth, and is suitable for almost everyone. Many women find shea butter to be a great hypoallergenic balm to help maintain breast firmness. You can apply it liberally to the breasts as a natural firming treatment. Due to the moisturizing nature of shea butter, it may help reduce stretch marks, itching, and skin tightness. In fact, it helps preserve skin elasticity when used regularly. 

Beeswax

There are many beeswax nipple covers intended for breastfeeding mothers, as the beeswax helps protect the nipples from irritation. Beeswax is an emollient, humectant, and occlusive, so it soothes and softens the skin by filling in gaps and smoothing the surface. It also attracts moisture to the skin and helps the skin retain that moisture. That’s why it is highly effective for preventing nipple pain and cracking. It is highly beneficial for the skin, but no evidence suggests that it will increase breast size or firm up sagging breasts. 

Geranium Essential Oil

Commonly used in aromatherapy applications, geranium essential oil may help to reduce feelings of stress or anxiety. It may also enhance concentration, cognitive function, and help balance hormones. In cosmetic applications, geranium essential oil has a reputation for eliminating dead skin cells and tightening the skin. It may also promote the regeneration of new skin cells and diminish the signs of aging. Studies confirm that the astringent properties in geranium essential oil work to tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of sagging or wrinkling. 

DIY Firming Castor Oil Breast Balm

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons cold-pressed castor oil
• 1 tablespoon shea butter
• 1 tablespoon beeswax pellets
• 5 drops geranium essential oil
• 3 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Fill a small saucepan with about one to two inches of water and place over low heat. 
• Place a heat-safe bowl on top of the saucepan and then add the shea butter and beeswax pellets. Allow them to melt, stirring occasionally with a clean spoon or small silicone whisk. 
• Once the shea butter and beeswax are fully melted, pour in the castor oil and remove from heat. 
• Add the essential oils, mix well, and then carefully pour the mixture into a clean jar or tin. Allow it to firm up at room temperature (about an hour). 
• Once firm, screw on a lid and store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When ready to use, warm a small amount between your hands. 
• Gently massage the balm into a clean chest and the under-breast area using slow, upward motions. Use two to three times per week, or nightly if desired.

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