De-stress yourself naturally

What do you do at the end of the day to "de-stress"? Sometimes it's more difficult to "unwind" than it is to keep going even after a stressful day. Learning how to naturally de-stress can assist you in recharging your body, mind and spirit. While everyone has their own method(s) that work for them, here are just a few natural methods I recommend:

1. Prayer: It's amazing how something as basic as "prayer" helps connect your spirit to God and how that helps you reconnect you to your wellbeing. Prayer allows you to pour out your heart while emptying your thoughts to the only One who will not only listen but also comfort, restore and bring you peace.
   
2. Warm bath with Epsom salt: Add 2 cups of Epsom salt in a warm (not hot) bath. The magnesium in the salt will help fight toxins while naturally boosting your natural body functions (muscle control, stimulates over 325 enzymes, elevates energy production). A gentle/slightly cool "rinse" after the bath will leave you feeling refreshed.
   
3. Music: Slow tempo instrumental music creates a calm and soothing atmosphere (while you're soaking) helping you to relax. Learning to "tune out" helps you learn how to "tune-in" to your inner thoughts.
   
4. Smells: I love lighting a candle, dabbing on a few drops of oil or sipping a cup of tea while setting the mood for relaxation. The following products can either be consumed or applied. Chamomile (tea – great for insomnia and an upset stomach), Lavender (oil/bathing products – wonderful for depression), Bergamot (found in Earl Grey tea – known for relieving stress), Sandalwood (oils and candles – earthy smell promotes a calming effect) and Mandarin (red or green oil – competes with Lavender for peaceful sleep).
   
5. Food: Avoid junk food! Reach for fruit, leafy vegetables, yogurt, tuna, whole wheat food products/bread, or some skimmed milk and you'll feel much better. More protein at dinner helps keep your desire to eat in check (remember your serotonin - feel good hormone - is at its lowest at the end of the day, increasing your desire to overeat).
   
6. Avoid alcohol – While a glass of wine may sound fine it's not. The rise and fall of the sugar effects your insulin, creates cravings and one glass always leads to two (and usually more). The calories from wine (or any alcohol) are empty calories, as well. If you're attempting to reach a natural alternative, substitute the health benefits of wine with a bowl of red grapes, naturally aiding to your overall wellness.
   

Quick tip for wellness: Practice distressing naturally and you'll experience an overall sense of wellbeing that will naturally re-energize you overall.