Have you ever noticed that when the seasons change and we begin spending more time indoors, you can start to feel a little more congested? With windows closed and more time spent inside, we may be exposed to more indoor dust, pet dander and other environmental allergens. Add seasonal colds and more time spent around others, and our respiratory systems can sometimes use a little extra support.

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to support your respiratory wellness, Active Dry Salt Therapy (Halotherapy) may be worth exploring. At Salt Wellness Centre, you can step away from the busyness of the day, breathe deeply and simply relax. 

The halogenerator gently disperses microscopic particles of USP-grade sodium chloride into the air. As you breathe normally in the Himalayan salt room, the fine salt particles travel into the air around you and are breathed into your respiratory tract. The warm glow of our Himalayan salt walls creates a peaceful atmosphere, while you're receiving the benefits of dry active salt. The treatment is also deeply relaxing and immune boosting. One main benefit of salt therapy is that it can help thin mucus and support the body's natural respiratory detoxification process. 

Himalayan Salt Therapy Room — 45 minutes
Surround yourself with glowing Himalayan salt-brick walls, settle into a comfortable lounge chair and breathe. Read, meditate, listen to music or simply do nothing.
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Private Salt Therapy Bed — 35 minutes
Enjoy a warm, private, cocoon-like experience as you relax on our Himalayan Salt Bed and breathe in the micronized dry salt. Add an Infrared Sauna session for an extended wellness experience. 

One of the interesting properties of salt is that it is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts moisture. One proposed mechanism of dry salt therapy is that when fine salt particles reach the airway lining, they may draw water into airway secretions, helping to thin mucus and potentially making it easier for the body's natural clearance mechanisms to move it from the respiratory tract.

This may be one reason some people report feeling less congested or as though they can breathe more freely following a session.

Research into halotherapy has explored its potential as a complementary therapy for respiratory wellness, mucus clearance, lung function and quality of life. 

 Choose the Salt Therapy Room if you enjoy a spacious, peaceful setting you can share with a friend or spouse or enjoy time yourself with reading, music or meditation. We also have a finger labyrinth for you to use during your session to allow your brain to simply focus on one simple exercise.  You can come and go in your own clothes or enjoy using one of our robes. Cozy up with a blanket and a cup of herbal tea and enjoy the relaxation experience.
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Choose the Salt Therapy Bed if you prefer warmth, privacy and uninterrupted relaxation, where you can lie down and feel the warm salt bed underneath you as you breathe deeply & mindfully. 

Both options above have their own Halogenerator, which disperses the salt in a fine powder into the room or bed chamber. The salt is then absorbed via the lungs and any skin exposed (more so in the bed option as you are unclothed). Feel the stress melt away, breathe easier, combat allergies, reduce congestion and boost immunity, all in one simple treatment. 

Whether you're looking for seasonal self-care, complementary respiratory wellness or simply time to switch off, the Salt Wellness Centre offers a space to pause and breathe.

It’s important to recognize that true health and wellbeing often require us to look at all areas of our health, rather than focusing on just one aspect. Physical pain, for example, can sometimes be exacerbated by mental tension, nutritional deficiencies or food allergies, ongoing stress, emotional trauma, or acute emotional stress. If you are doing everything you can to address physical symptoms while overlooking other contributing factors, you may find yourself feeling frustrated, stuck, or wondering why you aren’t making the progress you hoped for. 

If you feel you have reached a plateau with your health goals, or the things that once worked for you no longer seem to be helping, it may be time to explore other areas of your health. We often don’t consider the many underlying factors that can contribute to a symptom. Something as fundamental as poor immune function, for instance, may be influenced by nutritional deficiencies, an excessive toxic burden, chronic stress, or other imbalances within the body, potentially contributing to a wide range of symptoms.

We invite you to get curious about your health and explore areas you may not have previously considered. Sometimes, looking beyond the obvious can provide valuable insights into what may be contributing to how you feel. At Salt, we love encouraging people to become advocates for their own health. We empower our clients through education, encouraging them to do their own research, explore new therapies, and speak with experienced health practitioners and coaches so they can consider all avenues and make informed decisions about their wellbeing.

If you’re not sure where to begin, speak with Salt Wellness & Elimitox Health owner, Lehla Moran, who can help you explore personalized health strategies and identify areas worth investigating. Sometimes, taking a different approach or looking at the bigger picture can be the first step towards feeling better, reducing symptoms, and moving forward on your health journey.

Personal Note from Lehla:

I am a firm believer in, and a passionate advocate for, educating people about their own ability to heal. Sometimes, simple and consistent tools and techniques, combined with the support of a team of physical, mental, and emotional practitioners, can help guide you toward greater health, vitality, and happiness.

The key is to support the whole mind and body holistically, rather than focusing on just one or two aspects of a symptom or chronic condition. There can often be multiple contributing factors behind the symptoms or health challenges someone is experiencing. My goal is to help you explore and rule out potential causes, so you can gain greater clarity while potentially saving time, energy, and money along the way.
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A little patience, determination, and a willingness to take an active role in your health can also make a meaningful difference. Most importantly, don’t let ill health define or limit you. With the right support, knowledge, and consistent approach, you can take positive steps toward feeling healthier, more vibrant, and more like yourself again.

Summer is one of my favourite times of the year! The days are longer, the weather invites us outdoors, and there are endless opportunities to enjoy time with family and friends. From backyard BBQs and beach days to camping, hiking, biking, swimming, paddling, and evenings around the fire, summer is truly a season to enjoy all that summer has to offer.

With all the fun, summer often brings a few extra indulgences, and that's perfectly okay! We tend to enjoy more ice cream, chips, treats, BBQ favourites, patio cocktails, and alcoholic beverages than we normally would. We're often more active, exposed to stronger sun rays longer, staying up later, sleeping less, and spending more time in the heat.

The key isn't avoiding these pleasures; it's finding a healthy balance. A few simple wellness habits can help you feel energized, reduce occasional bloating and water retention, support healthy skin, and keep you thriving all summer long so you can enjoy summer to the fullest with minimal nagging symptoms.

Rather than following an extreme cleanse or restrictive detox, I like to think of summer as an opportunity to give your body a gentle refresh. Our bodies naturally eliminate waste through the liver, kidneys, digestive system, lungs, and skin. Supporting these natural processes with
nourishing foods, hydration, movement, and restorative self-care can leave you feeling lighter, more energized, and refreshed after those inevitable summer indulgences.

Many people also notice:
o Less bloating after heavier meals
o Reduced fluid retention during hot weather
o Brighter, healthier-looking skin
o Improved digestion
o Better energy throughout the day

One of my favourite summer self-care rituals is dry brushing before stepping into the shower. Using a natural-bristle brush, gently brush the skin toward the heart. This simple practice exfoliates dead skin cells, stimulates circulation, and leaves your skin feeling silky smooth.

If you experience swelling in your hands, feet, or ankles during hot weather, a professional lymphatic massage can be another wonderful addition to your wellness routine. Gentle lymphatic massage encourages healthy lymph flow, which may help reduce edema (fluid
retention), improve circulation, and support the body's natural waste- removal processes.

Summer meals are meant to be enjoyed! Whether you're indulging in grilled burgers, steaks, potato salad, charcuterie boards, or rich desserts, digestive enzymes taken with heavier meals may help reduce occasional bloating and support comfortable digestion. Adding a quality
probiotic can also help maintain a healthy balance of beneficial gut bacteria, supporting digestive health and overall wellness, especially when travelling or entertaining guests.

Remember...healthy eating doesn't have to disappear just because it's summer and neither do the treats and indulgences. Just creating balance can make it all enjoyable!

Try to enjoy a variety of fresh salad or vegetable bowls, every day if possible. Fill it with colourful vegetables, leafy greens, healthy fats, herbs, and lean protein.

o Watermelon
o Pineapple
o Cantaloupe
o Honeydew
o Strawberries
o Blueberries
o Raspberries
o Blackberries

These seasonal fruits are naturally hydrating and packed with vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants.

If there is one thing your body needs more of during June, July, and August, it's WATER.

Between the warmer temperatures, increased sweating, vacations, sports, hiking, biking, swimming, paddling, gardening, and outdoor adventures, our hydration needs to increase dramatically.

If plain water seems boring, make it something you'll actually enjoy. Try adding:
o Rosemary with strawberries
o Basil with fresh lime
o Mint with cucumber
o Lemon with blueberries
o Orange slices with fresh mint

Need just a touch of sweetness? Add a few drops of stevia or a small spoonful of raw Manuka honey for a naturally delicious boost.

Proper hydration supports:
o Healthy skin
o Better digestion
o Healthy circulation
o Energy
o Temperature regulation
o Muscle recovery

Healthy skin begins with smart sun protection.
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Many people prefer mineral sunscreens made with zinc oxide because they provide broad-spectrum UV protection by sitting on the surface of the skin and reflecting or scattering harmful UV rays. They are often well tolerated by sensitive skin and can be an excellent choice when applied generously and reapplied regularly, especially after swimming or sweating.
 
Pair your sunscreen with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight protective clothing during peak afternoon sunshine.

​Step into a refreshing exploration of natural therapies designed to restore your hormonal equilibrium during the transformative perimenopause phase. In this opening section, we dive into the challenges that many experience as their bodies adjust, offering clear insights into the benefits of nature-based strategies for achieving balance. Natural therapies, such as herbal supplements, meditation techniques, acupuncture and mindful nutrition, provide a nurturing alternative to conventional treatments. Here, you’ll discover:

• The importance of identifying personalized triggers and symptoms  
• How lifestyle adjustments can ease common perimenopausal challenges  
• Simple daily practices for harmonizing hormone levels and boosting wellbeing

This guide is tailored for those seeking to reclaim their inner balance and embrace a more resilient, energized life. By integrating practical, science-backed methods into everyday routines, you can address symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, and sleep disturbances naturally. These actionable tips are designed to empower individuals to take control of their health and redefine what it means to thrive during transition. Get ready to embark on a journey toward a more balanced and vibrant future.

​Transforming your daily routine can play a crucial role in achieving balanced hormones and alleviating stress. Simple lifestyle modifications—ranging from regular physical activity to mindful dietary choices—can stimulate natural hormonal regulation and foster a sense of inner calm. Integrating practices such as consistent sleep schedules, regular exercise, and meditation can directly influence cortisol production and support the endocrine system.

Consider these practical steps to improve hormone balance while reducing stress:

• Adopt a nutrient-rich diet that emphasizes whole foods and minimizes processed sugars.  
• Incorporate mindful movement like yoga or brisk walking, which helps lower stress levels and enhance circulation.  
• Prioritize restorative sleep by establishing a consistent bedtime routine in a serene environment, whether at home or in a quiet corner.
•Consider acupuncture if you are experiencing severe symptoms. Traditional Chinese Medicine can also be very effective and an efficient way to restore harmony.
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By making these deliberate changes, you empower your body to better handle stress and support hormonal equilibrium. These adjustments not only improve overall well-being but also create a foundation for long-term resilience, enabling you to tackle day-to-day challenges with renewed energy and balance.

Navigating perimenopause can be challenging, which is why incorporating natural wellness therapies might offer a balanced path to relief. Many individuals experience discomfort during this transitional time, and exploring holistic options can make a significant difference. By integrating approaches that support overall hormonal balance, you can address symptoms like mood fluctuations, night sweats, and fatigue in a manner that nurtures both body and mind.

Consider these actionable natural techniques:
• Herbal Supplements: Natural botanicals such as black cohosh and wild yam may promote hormonal balance.
• Mind-Body Practices: Meditation, yoga, and tai chi help reduce stress levels and improve emotional resilience.
• Nutritional Adjustments: A diet focused on whole foods and essential nutrients supports the body through hormonal changes.
• Acupuncture and Massage Therapy: Traditional therapies are known to alleviate discomfort and enhance circulation.

Salt Wellness Centre is a local wellness center that offer these holistic treatments and more. I created this integrated clinic to support everyone in any walk of life. By embracing a well-rounded natural approach, you can create a tailored self-care regimen that not only eases perimenopause symptoms but also cultivates overall vitality and resilience for a smoother transitional journey.

Discover how to naturally balance your hormones by incorporating holistic stress management therapies into your everyday routine. Begin by setting intentional moments in your day dedicated to calm and self-care. Follow these steps to create a sustainable practice:

1. Prepare Your Environment:
   - Select a quiet, clutter-free space in your home or local center.
   - Dim the lights or use candles to create a soothing ambiance.
   - Ensure minimal distractions for enhanced focus.

2. Engage in Mindful Preparation:
   - Start with a 5-minute meditation or gentle deep breathing exercise to center your thoughts.
   - Consider light stretching to gently awaken your muscles.

3. Incorporate Therapeutic Sessions:
   - Schedule a float therapy or similar sensory reduction session during the week. This not only relieves stress but also promotes a balanced hormonal state.
   - Aim for consistency by integrating these sessions on days when you feel most stressed.

4. Reflect and Recharge:
   - After your session, spend a few minutes journaling your feelings and physical sensations.
   - Rehydrate and enjoy a light, nutritious snack to support overall wellness.

By taking these steps, you can be empowered to navigate perimenopause with confidence and strength. Embrace the journey and remember that small, consistent changes can lead to a more balanced and vibrant life.

A balanced diet rich in whole foods, regular physical activity, and stress management techniques like meditation are effective ways to promote hormonal equilibrium. Using techniques that improve sleep is vital. Sleep is the number one important factor in reducing hormone imbalance at any age. These methods support the body’s natural processes and help stabilize mood and energy levels.

Book a free 15 minute consultation call with me, Lehla Moran, and I will create a personalized plan to help guide & support you as you embark on your wellness journey. I also refer to our host of in house holistic practitioners as well as professional colleagues within our community.

If you’re searching for natural detoxification, you’ve likely come across everything from juice cleanses to extreme reset programs. One of the first and foremost things to consider when determining whether a cleanse or detox is right for you or which type of cleanse or detox is best for your health, is awareness around our own body’s built in natural detoxification system. Our bodies are designed to detox each and every day. Real, sustainable detox doesn’t come from restriction, it comes from supporting your own body’s natural systems. Your body relies on several interconnected systems to process and eliminate toxins. The natural detox pathways in the body consist of the following:

1. Liver (Primary Detox Organ)
The liver converts toxins into water-soluble compounds so they can be excreted.
- Phase 1 detox: breaks toxins into intermediate compounds
- Phase 2 detox: binds them to nutrients so they can be safely eliminated
Supports: protein, antioxidants, B vitamins, hydration
(Think water, leafy greens, trace minerals, hormone and antibiotic chicken, wholegrains, milk
thistle tea).

2. Kidneys (Filtration System)
The kidneys filter blood and remove waste through urine. Supports: water intake, electrolytes, circulation
(Think water, trace minerals, non caffeinated herbal teas – in particular dandelion).

3. Digestive System (Gut & Colon)
Eliminates waste and prevents reabsorption of toxins. Supports: fiber, probiotics, regular bowel movements
(Think water, insoluble and soluble fibre – root vegetables, flaxseeds, soaked nuts, oatmeal).

4. Skin (Sweat Pathway)
Sweating helps release certain toxins and supports circulation. Supports: heat exposure, movement, hydration
(Think infrared sauna, exercise, fresh greens juice).

5. Lymphatic System (Drainage Network)
Moves waste away from tissues and toward elimination organs. Supports: movement, massage, hydration, breath
(Think rebounding, lymphatic drainage massage, dry brushing, hot and cold therapies).

​7. Deep Breathing
Supports: lymph, nervous system
Try:
- 5–10 minutes of slow nasal breathing daily
- Long exhales to stimulate relaxation
- Ideally inhale for 4, pause for 6, exhale for 8, pause for 4

Wellness centers like Salt Wellness offer supportive therapies that simply enhance your body & natural detox pathways rather than forcing them.
Infrared Sauna
- Promotes deep sweating (supports skin and lymph)
- Helps mobilize stored stagnant toxins to be excreted
- Improves circulation

Halotherapy (Salt Therapy)
- Supports respiratory detox
- Helps clear airways and reduce inflammation

Ionic Detox Foot Bath
-  Stimulates and moves stagnant lymph
- Improves circulation
-  Encourages cellular repair and renewal
-  Encourages fluid movement to prevent adema

Lymphatic Drainage Massage Treatments
- Manually by a practitioner or device-assisted
- Helps move stagnant lymph
- Reduces puffiness and supports immune function
- Weight loss and cellulite reduction is an added bonus

Relaxation Therapies
(Like Float Therapy, meditation rooms, or sound healing)
- Lowers stress hormones
- Supports liver function and overall detox efficiency
- Destresses the nervous system to allow the body to expend energy on clearing detox pathways and promote healthy cell turnover

For more targeted detox support, consider Salt Wellness for your gentle detoxification needs that simply enhance and support your body’s existing pathways, helping you feel lighter, clearer, and more energized without being overwhelming. Learn more about Salt Wellness Centre here. 

Clients of Elimitox Health receive VIP pricing to the Wellness Services at Salt Wellness. If you require a customized service program, you’ll receive discounts on top of our already discounted service packages. Self-care is the new health care. We want to support your self care health care needs to help you achieve optimal health that promotes longevity and happiness. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Ever since I was a little girl, I would read Alive magazines at my grandmother's house and be constantly inspired by the pictures of healthy and happy people. Although I was very young, I resonated with what I could read and the pictures I saw. As I got older, I continued to enjoy the the awesome recipes and health tips so much, that over the years I have collected clippings and old issues of some of my favorite articles that encouraged me so much during my own health journey, 20 years ago. It brings me much pleasure to actually have a featured interviewed article in this month's January issue of the Alive magazine. If you are interested, here is the article mentioning some of the answers to questions asked of me during the interview. I am grateful to be mentioned several times and that I had the opportunity to participate in this article! 

The January issue of Alive magazine features my article. Below is some more in-depth questions & answers. ​

Valentine’s isn’t just for couples; and it isn’t just about chocolates and flowers. It’s about sharing compassion, love, forgiveness, kindness, thought and care with a loved one, a caregiver, your best friend, your romance or partner or even with yourself (aka self care). Your nervous system thrives every time you offer to someone else, or practice, any of those bolded value words above. This can be shown or practiced in a variety of ways, including simple gestures and positive actions.

Did you know that feelings of love and showing affection with even the slightest touch (done with positive intentions), create hormones such as oxytocin and neurotransmitters such as serotonin? These are feel good hormones/chemicals that create healthy and positive physiological reactions in our minds and bodies.

OXYTOCIN – The LOVE Hormone
Oxytocin rises when your brain detects safety, trust, and connection with others or yourself. Here’s how to increase your oxytocin levels:

Physical touch (one of the strongest triggers):
Some examples of physical touch include hugging (especially more than 20 seconds), cuddling, holding hands, massage, sex and orgasm and skin-to-skin contact (ie when a parent holds an infant against their skin, the baby thrives). Loving touch sends a direct signal of safety to the brain.

Emotional connection & trust:
Oxytocin rises when you feel seen and accepted. You can accomplish this through honest conversation, being listened to without judgment, expressing vulnerability and mutual eye contact (especially a slow, warm gaze). This also includes compassion for oneself, not just social connection.

Acts of care, kindness, and giving:
When we help or care for someone, or we are being cared for or helped, oxytocin increases (when we give or receive). You can also increase this hormone by expressing gratitude and caring for pets.

Self-compassion & forgiveness:
When we forgive ourselves for mistakes of the past or recent grievances, we feel less threatened and oxytocin can rise. Self-blame and shame keep the brain in threat mode which leads to higher cortisol levels. When you forgive yourself, self-attack mode quiets, cortisol levels decrease and the nervous system shifts towards safety. Oxytocin is suppressed by threat, so removing the threat opens the door for its release. Self-forgiveness often includes kind inner language, acceptance, emotional warmth toward yourself. Not always easy! And sometimes we need support to help navigate through this if it’s too challenging on your own. The good news is, the brain doesn’t distinguish between compassion for others and compassion for self! Both engage the caregiving / bonding circuitry, which releases oxytocin. Gentle self talk of self forgiveness, releasing shame and feeling emotionally safe with yourself can reduce stress very quickly so try practicing self compassion. Not sure where to start? Seek an experienced practitioner for support.

Parent–infant & caregiving bonding:
This releases huge amounts of oxytocin, especially with birth and breastfeeding, holding or
soothing a baby as well as caregiving roles towards adults or animals. Oxytocin supports
bonding and protective behaviors.

Calm, safe intimacy (not just sexual):
Feeling emotionally close to someone, feeling relaxed and unpressured during intimacy and trust-based affection will increase oxytocin levels.

As the new year begins, many of us set goals around physical health, exercise, and nutrition. These are important steps toward overall well-being and excellent intentions for the year ahead. I encourage my clients to stay active year-round, even during the colder winter months. Regular movement keeps energy flowing, supports mental clarity, and helps maintain physical strength. Pairing this with warming, grounding whole foods such as root vegetables, hearty soups, and seasonal produce can support your body’s nutritional needs and keep you feeling nourished throughout winter.

Equally important is addressing the emotional and mental aspects of health. Stress, anxiety, and low motivation can make staying active and eating well more challenging. By supporting your mental well-being—through practices like mindfulness, journaling, or gentle nervous system exercises—you create a stronger foundation for physical health.
Nutrition can also play a role here, with certain foods helping to stabilize mood and support brain health. A truly sustainable “New Year, New You” approach combines movement, nutrition, and mental and emotional self-care, giving your body and mind the support they need to thrive all year long.

Did you know that there are simple easy things you can do help reset your nervous system or calm down an anxious and overactive brain, soothe emotional upsets without having to use prescriptive drugs or aids?

Anxiety can feel overwhelming. Your heart races, thoughts spiral, and your body feels constantly “on.” The good news? Modern neuroscience offers simple, practical ways to calm the nervous system and quiet an anxious mind, without medication or complex routines. Here are some techniques you can start using today.

1. Make Positive Notes for the Tough Times
When you’re feeling good, take a moment to jot down a few things that feel positive: a compliment you received, a joyful moment, or simply a sense of calm. When anxiety strikes, these notes act like a mental “anchor,” reminding your brain that positive states are possible. This simple habit taps into the brain’s ability to strengthen neural pathways for positive emotions.

2. Self-Soothe Through Your Chest and Vagus Nerve

The vagus nerve is a key player in regulating your nervous system. When you’re feeling geared up or anxious, try placing your hand over your chest, take slow, deep breaths, and focus on softening this area. Gentle pressure and mindful breathing can signal your body that it’s safe, activating the parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” mode).

Additional Vagus Nerve Exercises:

- Eye Movements: Slowly look far to the right, then left, then up, then down. This stretches the muscles connected to the vagus nerve, helping reduce tension and regulate the nervous system.
- Gentle Neck Stretches: Tilt your head slowly from side to side or gently roll your shoulders backward to stimulate the nerve and release tension.
- Humming or Singing: The vibrations from humming or singing stimulate the vagus nerve through the vocal cords, helping calm the mind.

3. Use a “Value Word” to Interrupt Anxiety
Repeating a calming word—like LOVE, PEACE, or CALM—can interrupt racing thoughts and reset your nervous system. Neuroscience shows that focusing attention on a single word engages the prefrontal cortex, helping regulate emotional responses. Try saying your word out loud or silently whenever you notice tension rising.

4. Stretch, Yawn, and Reset Your Mind
Yawning isn’t just a sign of tiredness—it’s a brain reset. Yawning helps regulate brain temperature, increases cerebral spinal fluid, and can interrupt repetitive anxious thoughts. If you’re tense, try:
1. Imagining a yawn (think YAWN in capital letters!)
2. Opening your mouth slightly and smiling—the yawn often follows naturally
3. Allowing lots of yawns—this can even trigger tears, helping release tension and stimulate cerebral spinal fluid

This simple movement can shift your nervous system out of a stress state and into a more relaxed, alert state.

5. Language Matters: Invite, Don’t Tell
The words you use—both with yourself and others—can shape nervous system responses. Framing suggestions as an invitation (“Would you like to hear a tip for calming down?”) rather than a command (“You need to breathe and relax”) engages the brain differently, reducing resistance and opening pathways for cooperation and learning. Even small changes in language can subtly reduce anxiety in yourself and others.

Your nervous system and mind respond to gentle, intentional signals. Positive notes, vagus nerve self-soothing exercises, value words, yawning and stretching, and mindful language aren’t just “nice ideas”, they’re grounded in neuroscience and can actually change your nervous system response which then in turn, changes your physiological response. With regular practice, these simple techniques help you interrupt anxious patterns, regulate your nervous system, and move toward a calmer, clearer state of mind.

Wishing you much mental, emotional, nutritional and physical health success in this new year! Book me for a discovery call if you are looking for support and a healthier renewed you!

The holiday season is officially here! Twinkling lights, family gatherings, festive food and … sometimes stress, irregular routines, and emotional overload.

Here are a few tips and a yummy recipe to help you through the holidays!

Self-Care Tips for a Calm and Joyful Christmas Season:
Here are some things you can do to keep your cool under various holiday pressures and maintain some balance around indulgence and stress.

​1. Pause before saying yes!

Before committing to any event, ask yourself: Does this nourish me or drain me? Protecting your energy is a form of holiday wellness. You can’t please everybody!

2. Keep blood sugar steady

Stable blood sugar means a stable mood. We all want to indulge in some treats, festive drinks and larger than usual meals. Filling your plate with protein (turkey), fiber (vegetables) and healthy fats (homemade salad dressing with olive oil) will keep you feeling full and prevent overeating simple carbs and sugar. This will keep blood sugar spikes under control which will improve mood and reduce irritability. This means less stress!

3. Carve out micro-moments of calm

You don’t need a 60-minute routine to reset your nervous system. Try:

• 30 seconds of deep breathing
• Stretching your arms overhead
• Stepping outside for fresh air
• Sipping warm herbal tea mindfully
• And guess what? Yawning – even fake yawns (which end up turning to real yawns) calm the nervous system and helps you shift into a parasympathetic mode

4. Practice compassionate movement

Choose movement that feels good, not punishing. A 10-minute walk, gentle yoga, or dancing can lift your mood instantly.

5. Set some boundaries around food and festivities rather than overindulging and then feeling guilty or depleted

Enjoy your favorite treats mindfully, without guilt. The key is balance. If you indulge one evening, just be more mindful about what you are intaking the following day. And maybe you don’t have to attend every single invite. Choose what feels good and try to avoid what feels overwhelming and stressful (learn how to be okay with saying no, guilt free!). Declining an invite is often healthier than forcing yourself to show up depleted. Your mind, body and soul will thank you with more energy and vitality.

6. Stay hydrated (yes, even in winter!)

Aim for warm water with lemon in the morning, hot herbal teas and water during the day and water between holiday drinks to maintain hydration and keep your liver rinsed. Hydration helps improve concentration, mood, and digestion and prevents you from getting too dry, especially when home heating is being used more often during the winter months.

7. Prioritize real rest

Good sleep is the foundation of holiday resilience. Staying up late to enjoy a Christmas movie or some festive cheer? Who says you can’t catch some daytime zzz’s. The holidays are a perfect opportunity to take cozy and nurturing naps. At the very least, allow yourself to slow down when your body asks for it. Listening to your body’s cues for what it needs comes with real benefits in the form of less stress and pain. No opportunities for rest at home? Check out the healing and restorative options at Salt Wellness including Floatation Therapy, Massage Therapy and much more.

​Ingredients (Makes ~14 bites)
1 cup raw almonds (or almond flour)
8–10 soft Medjool dates, pitted
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp pure peppermint extract
1–2 tbsp warm water (as needed)
Pinch of sea salt
Optional coating: melted dark chocolate (70%+), crushed peppermint, or cocoa powder
Instructions
1. In a food processor, blend almonds until they form a fine meal.
2. Add dates, cocoa powder, peppermint extract, and salt. Process until a sticky dough
forms.
3. Add warm water 1 tbsp at a time if the mixture seems dry.
4. Roll into small bite-sized balls.
5. Optional: Dip each ball in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peppermint or
dust with cocoa powder.
6. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to set.

Dates provide natural sweetness and fiber to balance blood sugar. Almonds supply healthy fats
and protein to keep you satisfied. Dark chocolate boosts antioxidants and your mood. Peppermint supports digestion (perfect after holiday meals).

These store well in the fridge and make a great edible gift, too! Enjoy!