It’s official, kids: the holidays are upon us.

Whether you delve head first into Christmas as soon as the clock strikes November, or if you like to take your time and give Thanksgiving its moment- It. Is. Happening!

There is planning to be done, parties to attend, and so many hats to wear. And I’m already feeling it. There are a few things I like to do to destress this time of year- an extra spin class here and there; a pedicure; a cup of tea before bed; a glass of wine with a friend. And I’m always on the look out for new ways to decompress.

I came across Inner Light Wellness in Darien over the summer and became an instant fan. Inner Light is a beautiful space with private, full-spectrum infrared saunas- which provide healthy benefits like improved circulation, increased collagen production, detoxification of heavy metals, enhanced metabolic function and decreased fatigue. I absolutely love treating myself to this place of zen- the space is so calming and relaxing; I’m able to quiet my mind and just breath, and I truly feel a difference, even after an express 25 minute session.

I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know the founder of Inner Light Wellness, Kelly Ingraham, in recent months- and even just her energy has a grounding effect. She’s sweet and knowledgable and her passion for wellness and self-care is inspiring. So when it came to this post and sharing a few tips on how to stay grounded during the holidays, I thought it best to go to the pro.

In addition to Infrared sauna therapy, Kelly recommends the following steps to help get you through the holiday rush:

Five Steps to holiday wellness

from kelly ingraham, inner light wellness

morning ritual

I recently read a great tip from Tim Ferriss about creating a morning ritual you'll stick to - pick five things and aim to hit at least three of them every morning. For me this is making my bed, celery juice, a cup of green tea, stretching and setting my intention for the day (either verbally in the mirror or written in a journal). It can be whatever makes you feel happy, grounded, and feel a little more accomplished about your morning. The permission to just do three of the five sets you up for success and self-compassion when you miss one, which will doubtless happen during the holiday season!

plants & water

Making sure to eat enough plants and drink lots of water is key during the holiday season. I don't count calories or carbs, I just eat as many veggies as I can when I have access to them so that I can indulge in whatever else I want to eat! I need to stay hydrated, or else I get headaches and fatigue. I am very sensitive to alcohol, unfortunately, but drinking lots of water helps me be able to enjoy a glass of wine!

pre-party practice

Although I struggled with anxiety in my twenties, I rarely encounter it these days unless I'm going to a social event with a lot of people I don't know. I love small groups or one-on-one but big groups aren't my thing! What helps me is to take a moment to pause in the car before heading in. I take a few deep breaths, and imagine a white bubble of protective light surrounding me, and while this may sound odd it really works to keep me grounded and calm.

Bedtime Tea

The key for me is keeping it very simple. Every night I try to have a relaxing cup of tea and/or a glass of Naturally Calm magnesium. Magnesium is an essential mineral for our bodies but we're almost all deficient, and it's perfect right before bed as it relaxes your muscles and promotes the release of neurotransmitters that help us sleep. An old-fashioned cup of tea is my other favorite bedtime drink - right now I love Traditional Medicinals Chamomile with Lavender and No. Six Depot Witch's Brew.

go to bed

Go to sleep as early as you possibly can. Whenever I make an effort to go to sleep as early as I can I feel so good the next day - even better if I've been to bed early a few nights in a row. It's an insurance policy against a late evening at a holiday party, or your kid's mid-night wake-ups. There is just nothing better than a good night's sleep. I also love using an eye mask to block all light - I am so sensitive - and Lunya's is my favorite.