Happy Holidays!!

Happy Holidays to all! 

At this time of the year, I often find that people are a bit frazzled, rundown, and tired. Tired of the busyness around the holidays from planning events and buying gifts to finishing last minute tasks. Tired of having too many commitments and too little time with not enough help to get things done. This holiday season, I encourage you to slow down and breathe, enjoy the holiday season for what it should be: quality time spent with loved ones in celebration of life and giving thanks for what we do have. Here are some healthful holiday tips to help you maintain wellness during this time of year!

1. Prioritize social gatherings and allow yourself time for just you!  You do not have to attend every event you have been invited to. Allow yourself to say “no”, and schedule in quiet time to read, take a bath, or enjoy a cup of tea by the fire.
   
   
2. Think about what you enjoy during the holiday season, and prioritize that. If you enjoy cooking, go ahead and cook. If not, order prepared foods from a local whole foods shop or bakery. Consider asking guests to contribute dishes to a pot-luck feast to take some of the pressure off.
   
   
3. Remember that things do not have to be perfect. This is the time of year to enjoy those we are with and give thanks for what we have. It really doesn’t matter if the decorations are perfect or if there is a multitude of choices there at a holiday dinner.
   
   
4. Give yourself permission to eat a few things that you do not normally eat, and leave the guilt behind. Plan dietary splurges in advance, so they are an exception and do not become a habit. Resume normal eating patterns at the next meal.
   
   
5. With gifts, it really is the thought that counts. If you would like to downsize your gift giving and focus on the thought behind the gift. Some recommendations:       
6. Handmade items. You can make them yourself if you enjoy crafts, or purchase those made by local artisans, of which Vermont has many wonderful artists to choose from.                                                       
7. I love the Global Sistergoods website for fun sustainable gifts. Run by two sisters, the goal of this company is to provide a living wage to economically disadvantaged women around the world.
   
8. Above all, relax and allow for a bit of peace. 

In other news:  SNFW is Really Moving!!  
As of January 1st, we will be seeing clients at 699 South Main St. Unit #1 in Stowe's lower village.  Luckily this move will not be too far, as it is only two doors down from the current location! We will be setting up shop in the lower half of the building currently utilized by the Stowe Land Trust, which some of you may already be familiar with.  Although the space is a bit smaller than our current location, we hope to make is just as welcoming and warm for visitors! We appreciate your patience and understanding during the transition. If you need directions prior to your appointment, please call the clinic to speak with myself or Amanda, our public relations specialist! 
Be on the lookout for an official mailing regarding the move. 

Warm Regards and Best Wishes for a Happy and Healthy Holiday,

Stowe Natural Family Wellness practitioners and staff