Small pops of care throughout your day can make a significant impact over time. Discover four ways to break the cycle of stress, starting with a family herbal remedy to help combat flu season from MDW contributor Zoe and three suggestions from MDW founder, Elizabeth.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is not intended to be nutritional or medical advice.
Each individual's dietary needs and restrictions are unique. Before consuming any herbal remedies or products, you should speak to your physician.
1. Prep for flu season with oregano & garlic
Zoe: As a young child, I remember my Arabic Yaya (grandmother) boiling onion, garlic, and oregano on her stovetop whenever she was sick. Yaya would pour this mixture into a mug, add a bit of honey, and knock it back. In two days, Yaya would be feeling better.
In anticipation of the impending flu season, I came up with my own version of Yaya's remedy.
Add the following to 1 large mason jar:
3 jars of organic oregano spice
2 cinnamon sticks
4 bulbs of garlic
3 scoops of unfiltered natural honey
Fill the jar up to the top with 80-proof vodka (I recommend Effen Vodka). Shake daily and let sit for 6 weeks before consuming.
Dosage: Just like with any herbal remedy, you need to carefully experiment to find the best result for your own unique needs. An adult can begin with this tincture dosage adding 4-5 drops under your tongue.
Want to learn more about the health benefits of garlic and oregano? Read more at MedicineNet and MedicalNewsToday.
2. Dismantle PMS with maca root
Elizabeth: After I turned 40 my PMS became so intense, that I barely recognized myself days before my period. I was angry and ready to give up anything that was disrupting my life. Once my period hit, all of those feelings disappeared. I hated that my mood was out of control.
I was sharing my PMS concerns with my friend who recommended maca root. I tried it, and after a week, saw noticeable results. My mood was steady and I felt calm instead of panicked, short-tempered, and stressed during the 3 days before my period.
I use Red Maca Extract from The Maca Team. I add it to my tea in the morning.
3. Get glowing skin with a pumpkin face mask
Elizabeth: Experience the power of the pumpkin with Chanla Chau Cosmetic's Pumpkin Face Mask. This carefully crafted formula is enriched with pumpkin enzymes, ginger extract, blood orange hydrosol, and bamboo. A unique combination of ingredients, this seasonal product works synergistically to provide your skin with a multitude of benefits.
Exfoliate, nourish, and brighten skin with one use
Suitable for all skin types
Free from harsh toxins
Please note, Chanla Chau Cosmetics is small-batch skincare. Learn more about investing in potent and effective of skincare in Chanla's article on MDW.
4. Don't forget to breathe
We are the masters of putting on a happy face no matter what the circumstance. It’s what we do as women — soldier on.
But that approach is not sustainable.
Time to move through the stress, talk about it with our therapists and develop coping strategies that help us move through our days instead of resisting.
I've found this movement toward peace requires baby steps, not a mental health boot camp.
The first step? Breathing.
When you feel that tightening in your chest today - breathe. Inhale for 5 seconds and exhale for 5 seconds. BREATHE and press on — one minute at a time.
*This post contains affiliate links, so MDW may earn a small commission when you make a purchase through links on our site. All commission goes directly back to MDW community initiatives like Moms Support Group, Saturday Expert Series Presentations, and donations to local women's organizations.