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If you’re finding yourself to be in a constant state of overwhelm this season, you are not alone!

I feel you. This time of year is suppose to be all about giving, making beautiful memories, and spreading kindness around like confetti.

But the speed of modern life and all the extra on our plate can leave us feeling exhausted & stressed instead.

Here is what I want you to know; you CAN be successful in your role as _________ (insert your role: mother, entrepreneur, leader, career gal, all of the above lol) and still feel calm and focused, even in the busiest of seasons.

You see, for years, I thought being successful was only possible when I was stressed to the max and running around like a crazy person. Little did I know, the imaginary badge of honour came at the price of total burnout.

So now I operate differently.

I choose what’s in my calendar very intentionally and I put myself on the priority list – this is the only way I know how to keep my energy high and show up as the best version of myself for my clients and family.

One thing I have come to rely on for support, especially during the crazy month of December, is our plant allies – truthfully, I don’t know what I would do without them!

I love using natural herbs because they always come with side benefits, they act fast, and when you drink them as tea, they help you stay hydrated!

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Here are my top recommendations for you, if you want to feel more calm, present and focused this holiday season:

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1.  Holy Basil (Tulsi)

This is a reoccurring star in my life and I often recommend it to clients. I called it the herb of ‘bliss’ because it literally puts you in a beautiful bubble of calm. Tulsi has been used for 3000+ years, originating from India, for its chakra balancing effect and bringing out the joy and goodness in humans:)

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Here are its medicinal benefits:

  • calms the mind and spirit
  • reduces inflammation
  • lifts anxiety & depression
  • supports healthy sleep
  • supports healthy blood sugar and triglyceride levels
  • boosts mental clarity
  • supports immune function

Enjoy as a tea, capsule or in tincture form.

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2. Chamomile

This is probably the most familiar and popular herb. Know for its calming and soothing effect, this nervine tonic is a beautiful herb for the whole family. We enjoy it after dinner with a touch of organic honey. Due to its sedative factors, its best to consume chamomile in the evening and not mix with alcohol.

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Here are its medicinal benefits:

  • Fights anxiety and depression
  • Natural allergy relief (or hay fever)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Muscle spasms
  • Improves PMS and other menstrual disorders
  • Insomnia reduction
  • Carminative (digestive flatulence & pain relief)

Enjoy as a tea or in tincture form.

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3. Lemon Balm (Melissa Officinalis)

This is another nervine tonic, meaning it can calm and rejuvenate an overly stressed nervous system. I often recommend this herb to clients who are experiencing higher than normal stress levels and experience a lot of anxiety. Try using it in place of your morning coffee, as it has the ability to support a sense of calm and focus.

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Here are its medicinal benefits:

  • Antiviral, antibacterial
  • Stress relief
  • Anxiety relief
  • Insomnia reduction
  • Antioxidant support to prevent cell damage

Enjoy as a tea, capsule or in tincture form.

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**As always, make sure to check with your personal healthcare practitioner before starting any new herbs and take necessary precautions if you are currently taking any medications, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. 

Stay tuned for part 2, when I talk about medicinal mushrooms & supplements to support your nervous system this season!

In health,
Annaliisa xx