Everyone knows all too well the stress of the holiday season, running from one family gathering to the next, having to prepare food to bring to each event, going out to purchase gifts at crowded stores and shopping centers, dealing with increased work loads because of holiday vacations. This season, there is the added stressor for many people of not having the finances to do the holiday things they have done in the past, or to pay the increase in heating costs, and the list goes on.

There are some simple, cost-effect ways to help with stress during the holiday season, or any time of year. From a holistic standpoint, the energy of the liver is critical in dealing with stress and emotions, and it helps to keep the immune system strong. The liver chi (qi) helps in processing the harder emotions, such as anger, fear and anxiety. Unprocessed, these emotions are believed to express themselves in other, more harmful ways.

Herbs, teas and supplements for the liver chi can be a fantastic way of supporting our health needs. But are there other options for those who, don’t like drinking tea or taking herbs and supplements? Yes! Using what is called a moist-heat liver pack is a potent choice. This can be used along with liver teas and herbs.

How to make a moist-heat liver pack:

1. Take a hot water bottle and fill with hot water (not too hot; it should be comfortable, like bath water). Electric heat and rice packs do not provide the same effect.
2. Next, take a wash cloth or small towel and get it moist (not dripping) with hot water as well.
3. Place the moist wash cloth over the liver area, then place the hot water bottle on top of that and a dry towl on top of that.
4. Leave it there for about 30 minutes. This is a good time to watch TV, read a book or do something else relaxing.
5. Do this every night for a minimum of 30 nights. As it makes most people drowsy, it’s a good idea to do it before bedtime. After about three to seven days, people usually begin to have more energy, feel less stressed out and have stronger-smelling, detoxing bowel movements. This is when it is really starting to work.

Another fast and easy option, especially in the morning, is applying Colorpuncture, “The Zone of Force.” This is great for lack of mental strength, lack of decision, emotional exhaustion and more. To apply this, simply take an orange-colored light (non-laser) and apply it to the center of the palm, first left hand, then right, for 20 to 30 seconds each. This can be done every morning.

In addition, when people make a commitment to go somewhere or do something, they are more likely to follow through with it. Commit today to take a moment to stay healthy and balanced—get a massage, attend a yoga class or mediation circle, see an herbalist, nutritionist or other wellness practitioner—in order to keep all those other important commitments.

SchaOn Blodgett is a complementary and alternative medicine practitioner with Psinergy Natural Healing and Holistic Wellness, in St. Paul. For more information, call 612-217-4325 or visit Psinergy.info/.