The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a source of stress and anxiety. From managing your budget, planning parties and gift-giving to dealing with congested traffic, unorganized travel, unpredictable weather, difficult family members, and more, there's a lot to juggle and it can take a toll on your mental health. But while the holidays may bring with them a unique set of stressors, there are also ways to mitigate that stress through the foods and beverages we consume. Instead of reaching for unhealthy comfort foods or turning to alcohol as a way to cope, consider incorporating tasty, yet, healthy options into your holiday routine to help keep your stress levels in check.

The most important thing is to focus on getting enough nourishment. Skipping meals or not eating enough can exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiety, so make sure you're fueling your body with healthy, balanced meals. This might mean packing a lunch to take to work instead of eating out, adjusting the menu for holiday dinner, or making an effort to eat more fruits and vegetables. In addition to making sure you're getting enough to eat, pay attention to what you're drinking. Alcohol might seem like an easy way to relax and unwind, but it can actually contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety in the long run. Instead, try reaching for purple tea, which can have a calming effect and are also hydrating. Water and other hydrating beverages are also essential for keeping your body and mind functioning at their best. We’ve got some festive and delicious mocktail recipes you can try this holiday season! 

Like alcohol, caffeine can also contribute to stress and anxiety, so it's best to limit your intake of these beverages during the holiday season. Purple tea is a low calorie, low sugar, low caffeine beverage that is not only hydrating but bursting with benefits for your mind and body! A bottle of Purpose Tea each day can help you achieve lasting levels of stress-free calm, boost your immune health, your mood and energy levels. 

Purple tea is a unique variety of tea that is high in antioxidants and polyphenols. These compounds help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health, including mental health. Purple tea has a calming effect on the body and mind, making it the perfect beverage to enjoy during the holiday season when stress levels are high. In addition to its calming properties, purple tea also has a number of other health benefits. It can help to improve heart health, boost the immune system, and even help with weight loss. So not only will it help you relax and de-stress during the holiday season, it will also provide a host of other health benefits to get you through the new year feeling like your best self. Enjoy a cup of purple tea in the morning to start your day off on a calm and relaxed note, or enjoy it in the evening to help you unwind after a busy day of holiday activities. It's a simple and delicious way to help reduce stress and improve your overall health. 

Also consider adding some of these stress-busting foods to your diet. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fatty fish, have been shown to have a positive effect on mood. Similarly, foods high in vitamin C, such as oranges and bell peppers, can help reduce feelings of stress. Here are some easy, tasty, and healthy foods to add to your plate to de-stress this season: 

Dark chocolate - Yes, chocolate can be good for you! Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and magnesium, which can help reduce stress and improve mood.

Nuts and seeds - Nuts and seeds are packed with vitamins and minerals that help support your body's ability to cope with stress. They're also a great source of healthy fats and protein, which can help you feel fuller and more satisfied.

Berries - Berries are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that can help support your immune system and reduce inflammation. They're also a tasty and satisfying snack that can help you stay energized and focused during the busy holiday season.

Citrus fruits - Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes are a great source of vitamin C, which is important for maintaining a healthy immune system. They're also a refreshing and tasty way to hydrate and stay energized during the holidays.

By making an effort to incorporate these healthy foods and beverages into your holiday routine, you can help tame those holiday stressors and enjoy the season to the fullest. Start by enjoying a chilled bottle, or warm mug full of purple tea. Grab your favorite flavors, or a varieTEA pack of your choice right now from our site and sip your way into a stress-free festive season!