5-Minute At-Home Rituals for De-Stressing

Let’s face it; now more than ever, we all need to take some time to reboot and de-stress. Of course, figuring out how to do that is more challenging given that we all have limited access to our usual coping tools like workout classes, friend gatherings and spa treatments. But there are still some easy and calming ways to find your Zen at home. We spoke to Barbara Close, the founder of Naturopathica, a skincare and holistic health center, who shared her favorite practices to de-stress and stay grounded.

Related residents receive a special offer on Naturopathica; check the Related Connect app for more details.

Homemade Immunity Tea

I love the simplicity of putting a kettle on the stove, listening to the water gurgle, adding in herbs and watching them unfurl with aromatic essences. For the past two weeks, I've been making this immunity tea:

• ½ inch sliced fresh ginger root
• 1 fresh sage leaf, crushed
• 1 spring fresh thyme, crushed
• ½ fresh lemon, squeezed

Combine all ingredients in a mug. Cover with hot water and add one heaping teaspoon of wildflower honey. For an extra boost of immunity, add the Reishi Immune Tincture.

Grounding Breath Meditation Exercise

Sit comfortably and place 2 or 3 drops of your favorite essential oil in the palm of your hand. Rub your hands briskly together and inhale deeply. Close your eyes, relax the belly, and become aware of your breath. Slowly inhale through your nose, visualizing your lungs filling with purifying oxygen. Inhale for 4 counts and then pause for 1 beat at the top of your inhalation. Slowly exhale for 4 counts. Repeat.

Aromatherapy Bath Cures

Hydrotherapy is an important part of natural healing. The therapeutic use of water, including alternating hot and cold-water treatments (baths or showers), as well as steam baths, inhalations, and compresses, all can be very calming and meditative.

To make your own aromatherapeutic bath and body oil, fill a 4-ounce dark-colored glass bottle halfway with a medium-weight carrier oil, such as almond oil, safflower oil or sunflower oil. Add 40 to 50 drops total of essential oil(s). Close the bottle tightly and roll it between your hands to disperse the oils. Open and top off with carrier oil. Recap and mix it a second time. Pour 2-3 capfuls into your bath water and disperse with your hand.

Recommended essential oils include (equal parts or as preferred):

• Chamomile Essential Oil
• Lavender Essential Oil
• Rose Otto Essential Oil
• Bergamot Essential Oil

Chamomile was well known to the ancient Greeks, who likened its scent to apples. Its sedative properties have been used for centuries to treat insomnia and anxiety. Combine with soothing lavender, hypnotic rose, and a touch of refreshing bergamot, for a guaranteed lullaby.

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