by Get at least one massage this month
It may feel hard to find that time for yourself, but the scientifically proven mental health benefits of massage make it a no-brainer during stressful times. Having your therapist employ acupressure techniques that focus on the hands and feet are also helpful for stress management.
Practice cortisol control
Cortisol runs wild during the hectic schedules and high stress of the holidays. Fortunately, there are so many ways to get it in check.
Let the sun shine in
There may be fewer daylight hours to take advantage of, but that very factor makes sun exposure all the more important during stressful times. Direct sunlight is scientifically proven to help reduce stress, regulate circadian rhythms, and more.
Be kind to your gut
There are 101 things that can cause digestive woes during the holidays, and stress can be both its cause and its result. Stop the vicious cycle of with a few guidelines:
- Make anything you eat (or drink) worth it.There’s no shortage of opportunities to indulge this time of year, so make sure if you do, it’s because you truly, madly love it, and not just because it’s in front of you.
- The later you eat, the smaller the meal.This minimizes digestive drama that interferes with sleep—especially helpful since insufficient rest can further exacerbate digestion and stress.
- Keep peppermint tea and fresh ginger on hand, for natural digestive aids when gastric woes arise.
- Our favorite digestive aid? A massage, of course! No kidding!
Makai means “by the ocean” and the intention is to bring the aloha spirit to each and every session.