Here’s How To Stay Mindful Through The Holidays

The holidays are about about good food and good times but there's so much more meaning to explore.

Give yourself space to reflect, to appreciate and to ground into the moment. What do you want to take with you and what do you want to leave behind? Yogi Nina Endrst offered a little insight to our friends at Free People. Discover a few ways to maintain mindfulness during the flurry of festivities ahead...

This time of year is nostalgic, joyous, and bright for some… for others it can be chaotic, triggering, and emotionally charged. I believe in being kind and mindful year-round, but I think it’s especially important to open our arms a little wider and smile a bit brighter during the holiday season.

As 2017 comes to a close, give yourself space to reflect on what has transpired – what do you want to take with you and what do you want to leave behind? Winter invites us to go inward and take care. I’ve been settling into warm, cozy nooks, practicing quiet daily rituals and getting plenty of restorative rest. Whether you are celebrating and spending time with friends/family or taking time to pause and breathe – try to nurture yourself and others.

These practices are for you to come back to when you’re in need of perspective or sweet and simple medicine during the holiday hustle.

Practice simple daily rituals for inner peace and quiet.

Try getting up 5 minutes earlier every morning. Before you reach for your phone or jump up for coffee, sit up in bed, close your eyes and breathe. Let yourself ease into the day.

Light candles or incense around your house in the morning…so simple but a lovely way to practice presence.

Give yourself extra time to make and enjoy your tea or coffee in the morning. Try to keep your phone/computer out of reach and sit with the morning light.

Practice Acts Of Love -- Often

With few exceptions, we don’t really know what is happening in other people’s lives, minds and hearts. It’s easy to get wrapped up in our own circumstances and forget about outward suffering. Together, let’s commit to taking a step back and finding small but impactful ways to connect, in real life. A few suggestions…

Ask the barista or person checking you out at the grocery store how they are doing. Look them in the eyes and acknowledge them. People want to be seen.

Treat the person behind you in line to a cup of coffee.

Smile at a complete stranger and say Hello!

Compliment a co-worker on a job well done.

Send friends or family members a note and let them know you appreciate and love them.

Be Mindful of Indulgence

I believe we are what we eat and most things in moderation. I grew up in a house of foodies and was raised to indulge mindfully. What we put in our bodies affects our overall health, when we nourish ourselves with real food and sprinkle in a treat here and there, we are much more likely to maintain mental, physical, and emotional health. It can be difficult to find balance this time of year in the midst of all the holiday parties. I say, if you want the cookie, eat the cookie…drink the wine, just not ALL the wine. Be mindful when making choices and aware of what you are putting in your body. No need to deprive yourself and definitely no need for judgment or guilt.

Set Boundaries

First of all, we are incredibly lucky to have friends and family in the first place – that doesn’t mean quality time doesn’t come with challenges. There is no perfect family. I try really hard not to set expectations of what the day will or will not be and allow it to unfold. I also try not to bring old stuff into a new day (tough one.) I find the best way to enjoy myself and relax is to come back to compassion and patience when I feel myself getting frustrated or anxious. The holidays can be super fun and super stressful. Setting clear boundaries before going into a situation is key. Give yourself an out, step outside for a few deep breaths if you get overwhelmed and come back with a clear head. Everyone will benefit.

Give The Gift Of Wellness

Everyone loves receiving presents, but I do think the holidays can spin out of control in this department. Try gifting your people something that is good for them and/or someone else. Look for products that are aligned with wellness. Yoga or exercise classes or clothing, natural beauty products, a company that donates a portion of the proceeds to charity. A little research goes a long way.

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Why We’re Eating Wellness Chocolates (Like, All The Time)

You might not think to put the words chocolate and supplements in the same sentence, but a new wave of wellness chocolates is changing the way we snack. With a few weeks of holiday sugar cookies coming our way, we're loading up on a stash of these functional bars to keep our cravings at bay and get a little boost of wellbeing when we need it.

Grab a few of these wellness chocolates for yourself, a few extra to share, and maybe even a handful or two to slide into a stocking...

HU Chocolate | Hu makes some of the best natural chocolate bars we've come across. The flavors are spot on, the texture is smooth and luxe, and the mission behind the brand is right up our alley. Their priority is high-quality, thoughtfully and ethically sourced ingredients to make foods that support a life of wellness -- so we can "get back to being human." CHECK OUT

Honey Mamas | You haven't lived until you've tried this cult-loved chocolate bar. Made with minimal, raw ingredients -- including cacao, raw honey and various botanical add-ins, depending on the flavor -- these handmade treasures are a true treat. With the texture of a brownie and the flavor of your chocolatey dreams come true, snack a stash and keep them in your fridge for instant joy.  CHECK OUT

Cobb’s | This is what every peanut butter cup wishes it could be. The little domes are made of perfectly smooth chocolate surrounding a ball of fabulously seasoned seed and nut butters -- from walnut to sun butter to almond butter. CHECK OUT

Beauty Bar Chocolate | We recently stumbled upon this beautiful wellness chocolate and instantly fell in love with the packaging. One bite later and we we're totally hooked. Each bar is loaded with adaptogens for an activated mind, a calm complexion and a peaceful little moment we crave. CHECK OUT

Addictive Wellness | Addictive Wellness has consistently been our go-to for functional wellness chocolate since the founders stopped by our office last summer and wow-ed us with their adaptogen-loaded ice creams and smoothies. Labeled with what effect you can expect, these small yet satisfying dark chocolates are as good as any supplement. CHECK OUT

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10 Chic Ways To Give the Gift of Less

During the holidays, it's easy to slip into the mentality of more is more. This season, we're spinning things around and giving the gift of less.

These gifts actually reduce the amount of stuff we own, cut the amount of waste we produce and are more likely to create lasting memories than a mess of packaging. Make a friend date, tote along one of these functional holiday presents and discover how ‘less’ can really mean so much more...

The Gift of Less Waste...

W&P Designs Container | This chic reusable container puts all other Tupperware to shame. If your bestie is on a never-ending Postemates binge, this cute portable bowl might just be the inspiration she needs to start cooking at home and killing fewer trees. CHECK OUT

Stelton To-Go Click |The elegant, minimalist design of these travel tumblers might look more like decor on your desk than a to-go mug. Maybe you'll actually remember to bring it along on your next coffee run instead of walking out with yet another trash-bound paper cup. CHECK OUT

Keep Cup reusable coffee cup | This eco-friendly glass coffee cup slides right into your cup holder -- and looks real cute tucked in there. The cork band keeps it comfortably touchable, while the BPA-free lid is easy to sneak a sip out of. CHECK OUT

The Gift of More Time... 

All Birds Wool Runners | These sustainable wool sneakers feel like a cloud cradle for your feet. Gift a friend with a pair in their favorite color, along with a book of coupons for friend dates including a few good walks. CHECK OUT

KAICO TEA KETTLE | Give the gift of dedicated friend chats and cozy afternoons at home. The real gift is the promise of time together -- and at least two pots of tea. CHECK OUT

GOLDE ORIGINAL TURMERIC TONIC BLEND | Being well should feel good -- and that good feeling should be shared. Plan a self-care day with a friend centered around cozy tonics and time spent exploring the true meaning of wellness. CHECK OUT

The Gift of Good Ideas + Less Stuff...

Outer Order, Inner Calm by Gretchen Ruben | Give your loved ones the gift of peace of mind. This book from bestselling author, Gretchen Rubin, is loaded with suggestions for manageable steps to cultivate a more serene, orderly environment that gives us space to live the life we want. CHECK OUT

The Life Changing magic of Cleaning Up by Marie Kondo | Learning how to slim down your possessions to a collection of things that elevate your life is a uniquely empowering experience. That's why the world freaked out when Marie Kondo entered the scene. A few years later -- including more books, a manga comic and a few cute product collabs -- Marie Kondo's debut book is still a staple on our shelves. Give it to a friend in need to a de-cluttering that doubles as an existential makeover.  CHECK OUT

Make Time : How to Focus on What Matters Every Day by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky | Tech pros Jake and John have helped teams from Google to YouTube solve problems by changing how they work. Their approach comes from years experimenting with their own habits and routines, looking for ways to help people optimize their energy, focus, and time. | CHECK OUT

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5 Emotionally Healthy Ways To Navigate The Holidays

Remember the joy we felt as kids, running around the Christmas tree or lighting a hanukkiah? As adults, the easy joy of the holidays can become tainted by stress in all its forms. Positive psychologist and author of 21 Days to Resilience, Dr. Zelana Montminy, wants to help us navigate the holidays in a healthier way -- by making time to play.

Just ahead you'll find a few simple yet meaningful tips to keep in mind as we dive into the depths of the season. Play might sound like a frivolous thing, but it's an essential piece to true resilience and joy. This January, Dr. Zelena is hosting a 3-day Mental Fitness Bootcamp rooted in the concept. "It’s a completely unique, holistic program I’ve designed including flow yoga, ocean view mantra hikes, organic seasonal food, candlelight meditation and more. You will leave transformed and empowered with actionable skills that breed resilience, authenticity and lasting joy." Learn all about how you can join here.

Playfulness Makes Us Resilient. How The Holidays Can Help...
We’ve all felt it, that child-like joy when we are playful and having fun. Humor and play is innate — babies laugh from four months old and all children use humor and play to entertain themselves and learn. But where does that raw sense of humor and playfulness go as we get older? Life gets to us. We start to censor ourselves. We care too much about how people perceive us. And our to-do lists and responsibilities take the place of play.

It’s unfortunate because play is highly therapeutic — it actually makes us happier and healthier. It reduces stress hormones and allows us to release stored-up negative emotions. It strengthens our immune system and allows more time for our cells to fight disease since they’re not focused on processing stress in our body. There’s a myriad of benefits, but less known is that laughter and playfulness is also a useful tool to weather the daily grind.

Research has showed a connection between those who have humor and play in their lives have more positive thoughts and better problem-solving skills. And I’m not referring to the type of humor or playfulness that denies the reality of a crisis or pain — this can be used to overshadow the feelings or seriousness of situations. But if used in the right way, play can ground us with a shifted perspective and help us pull through the darkness. Resilient people are able to be playful and apply humor in appropriate circumstances.

How To Be More Playful During The Holiday SeasonThe holidays are a perfect time to insert more joy and play into our lives!  Here are a few tips for how:

Make your laughter heard. Science has found laughter to be contagious both visually and audibly. What a great way to give to others, the gift of laughter.

Use the wintery outdoors as your playground. If snow is not in your backyard, make a trip of it. It’s an easy way to get the benefits of fresh air and build a snowman while you’re at it.

The holiday season is all about magic, whether you believe in Santa, Mensch on a Bench, you name it. And the magic isn’t just for kids — it’s also for the kid still in all of us. Tap into that wonder and see your joy blossom.

Elevate your holiday get together to be about more than just cocktails and cookies. While that’s important, too (don’t get me wrong!), add a playful element such as a White Elephant gift exchange, Family Feud or Christmas Charades!

The holiday season isn’t sweet for everyone. This time of year can bring back a lot of painful memories or make you feel quite lonely. It’s easy to hide from it all. With challenge comes growth, so if this time of year is particularly difficult, I encourage you to lean into those tough, real feelings you’re experiencing.  Carve out time for a walk with a friend, say yes to a holiday gathering even if your gut reaction is no, or plan a playful gift exchange with colleagues. As hard as the holidays can be, forcing yourself to confront those feelings is the first step to them having less power over you.

What are your favorite ways to play?  Share below!

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A Pretty Pair Of Sparkling Mocktails That Will Nourish Your Skin

Get buzzed on beautifying superfoods your whole body will love. These functional sparkling mocktails from the glowy gurus behind CAP Beauty are perfect to prep and share at holiday parties all season, an ideal alternative for guests who are backing off the booze or just seeking a little something nourishing to balance between sips...

The season of parties is in full swing. And sometimes we choose to socialize but not imbibe. For those nights we opt for drinks that keep it festive while they keep it light. Not to mention, packed with superfoods, probiotics and immune boosting magic. Make the next morning a good morning with these sparkling mocktails. [olists num=1][olists num=2]

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Here’s All That Really Matters To Us For 2019 Travel

How to stay healthy and happy while on vacation? Pick a destination that really knows what they're doing in the kitchen. Whether you have one of many modern medical issues that limit your diet, or like us, you simply enjoy feeling good on vacation we've found that the best new resorts are refreshing their menus for a more modern, clean palette.

Several times in the past few years, we've arrived at well-known resorts with all the luxuries only to find that the menu, from suite to beach, is as outdated (read: heavy, salty, rich) as the drapes at the motel by the airport. Yes, we're ready to indulge on vacation -- bring on the spicy margaritas, but we're looking for a glass filled with real lime juice and coconut sugar, not mystery mix.

To be clear, we're grateful to tears anytime we're lucky enough to wedge our bums from our office perches and into the sand at any resort, but over the recent years, resorts with modern menus have stood out as the properties that really know what the modern traveler is after.

Earlier this season, we had the pleasure of visiting the tiny Hawaiian island of Lanai to experience the Four Seasons Lanai there. The Four Seasons sprawls along the coast -- an epic indoor-outdoor property with garden-lined pools so special we rarely made it to the beach. Despite the gorgeous design details and inimitable location, what floored us about our experience at the Four Seasons was the food. Like a tropical translation of the best of Malibu, the Four Seasons houses both Malibu Farm and NOBU, among other options. There's really no place on earth we'd rather be than NOBU Malibu - or so we thought until we experienced the omakase menu, island-style.

While having a NOBU on the property is a vacation destination mic-drop, the spot we most appreciated from day to day was Malibu Farm. Malibu Farm handles pool service for the Lanai hotspot and pulls ingredients straight from their edible garden for everything from hand-crafted cocktails to smoothies, bowls and epic salads.

Another reason why a healthy, modern menu matters to us at a resort is that it's a telltale sign they pay attention to other clean and modern details too. A sustainably thoughtful menu is often a good clue that bathroom amenities will be natural or the bedding will be organic. It's also a great sign for a property's spa.

The Four Seasons' spa at Lanai was recently updated and we were amazed to find the treatment menu filled with small, luxurious green brands like Kypris (a TCM fave)and traditional remedies like a full body ti leaf wrap to help skin recover from too much sun.

We've got a hunch that TCM readers are already reading resort menus online before deciding where they travel, but if you haven't started the habit, we recommend doing just that. Online menus are often an easy indicator of how carefully a resort is paying attention to lasting cultural trends and tending to their corporate sustainability practices.

No vacation plans on the books for 2019 so far? To soothe all the vacation vibes we've stirred, we're sharing the perfect recipe from Malibu Farm that sums up 'vacay food' done right. This genius broccoli dip (sorry, guac - we love you too!) was served at the pool with local veggies, hummus - and a few artisanal cocktails. Try it at home to stuff a little cruciferous goodness into your next grain bowl or party spread...
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Tell us what matters to you when you travel in the comments below! Do you care about a clean menu? A sustainably responsible property? We want to know...

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10 Ways To Survive The Holidays with AutoImmune Disease

The holidays are a time that calls for us to be extra kind to ourselves, especially when a chronic illness like autoimmune disease is in the mix. In the United States alone, there are approximately 54 million individuals living with an autoimmune disease and close to 2 million new cancer diagnoses each year -- that struggle certainly doesn't stop during this whirlwind time of year.

Holly Bertone, is an expert in chronic illness, a survivor herself, and the bestselling author of Thriving in the Workplace with Autoimmune Disease. Below, she's sharing how people dealing with a chronic illness like autoimmunity can enjoy the holiday season with as little extra stress as possible...

Growing up, my holidays were over the top. My parents always went out of their way to make the entire season from Thanksgiving through New Year's Day extra special. Fast forward to Christmas 2010, I was in the middle of chemo treatment and flat-out sick over Christmas. After cancer, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, and my health and energy plummeted. I couldn’t enjoy the holidays like I used to.

I realized that as much as I love the memories and traditions of the past, the holidays are about being with family and friends and the spirit of the season — not creating Facebook or Pinterest perfection. I've kept that same spirit ever since and am sharing my best practices for holiday survival with you today.

How To Manage Stress During The Holiday SeasonThe holidays can be a joyous time — or a time for heartache and struggle. For anyone with a chronic illness, the extra undue stress fuels fire to an already stressful time of year. Here are ten great tips to manage stress and help you enjoy the holidays with your family and friends.

Be Your Own Advocate | It can be difficult to advocate for yourself when you feel like you don’t want to disappoint anyone. You are going to get tired. You will probably have food restrictions. What do you need to communicate? Make a list and do it ahead of time. If you don't speak up for yourself, don't expect anyone else to. Especially with family, if you don't tell them that something needs to be different, they will never know.

Plan | Get out your calendar. Write down all of the known events. Circle the ones you absolutely must or want to go to. Keep in mind your energy level and how many events in a day or week you may be up for.

Manage Expectations | We live in a day and age where we only see the best side on social media. Whatever you go through on a daily basis with your chronic illness (fatigue, pain, food, etc.), keep your expectations in check. And remember, it may be worse over the holidays due to the increased stress. And please, please, please do not compare yourself to anyone else. Not on Pinterest. Not on Facebook. Not your next-door neighbor. Not your sister. Not your best friend. No one.

Find Your Focus | Make a list of what's really important to you this month. Imagine it's January 2, 2019. Imagine if you were talking about the holidays to a friend you haven't seen in a while. What were the highlights? What made you most excited? What were those special moments? When someone asks you, How were your holidays? what is the first thing that comes to mind that brings you joy? That, my friends, is what you want to focus on. Start there. Know your priorities and stand firm.

Bring Your Own Food | It's a lot more acceptable to bring your own food these days. It seems like everyone has some kind of food allergy or nutrition protocol they are on. I may even go as far as to say it's trendy. Don't feel like you have to be polite or hurt anyone's feelings. Bring your own food. If you are going to a party or to someone's house, say I have a gluten intolerance so I'm bringing XYZ to ensure I can eat safely and also to share with everyone. Or, Do you prefer I bring ABC or XYZ?

Drink Responsibly | Many individuals with chronic illness choose to not drink alcohol. I always ask for sparkling water in a wine glass so I can still feel festive and not have to drink the token bottled water. When offered alcohol, say No, thank you, or I’m driving, and keep it brief and neutral. There is no need to go into details.

Pack a Handbag Full of Ninja Extras | Activated charcoal and digestive enzymes are good to take before and after you eat as preventative measures in case you ingest something that disagrees with you. Pack some extra snacks in your bag. Also, it’s good to have a small poop-spray on hand in case of an extreme bathroom emergency.

Practice Self-Care | The most important piece of advice for anyone with a chronic illness is to practice self-care. Learn to say no if the event or request is not in alignment with your plan. And literally, carve out time for you. Make sure you eat healthy and exercise, even if it's a gentle yoga practice or walking. Take a nap. Meditate. Schedule a massage or pedicure. Carve out a few minutes of quiet. Pick up a good book.

Don't Beat Yourself Up | As much as you plan and try, things do go wrong. It’s a part of life. Your self-worth is not how many cookies you baked or how your home is decorated or how many parties you go to. Your self-worth is in your heart and what you give to yourself and others.

Be Grateful | Don't get caught up in the craziness of the season. Take a few minutes every morning when waking up and every night before bed to practice gratitude. Either write down or think of ten things you are grateful for. It's easy to feel down this time of year, especially when dealing with a chronic illness. Take some time each day to remember the good in your life and send your gratitude up to God and out to the universe. It's amazing how grounded you will feel after being grateful.

The Chalkboard Mag and its materials are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. 
All material on The Chalkboard Mag is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programs. 

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