Amidst Challenging Times
The recent election has stirred a wide range of emotions—joy, relief, frustration, and even despair. With Thanksgiving approaching, a time traditionally focused on gratitude and thankfulness, it is important to reflect on how we can rekindle thankfulness, neighborliness, and peace, even in times of division.
As Christians, we trust God’s sovereignty, no matter the political landscape. Psalm 46:10 calls us to “Be still, and know that I am God,” a timeless invitation to rest in His presence, regardless of the chaos and uncertainty around us. While prayer is our primary anchor, God has additionally gifted us other tools to help us focus on gratitude and navigate the stresses of this season.
Gratitude in Difficult Times
An honest note: if we wait for others to extend kindness before offering our own, we may wait forever. Instead, choose to be the first to extend love and kindness, without expectation. No matter where you stand on politics, current events, or other hot topics, live out Romans 12 and always be willing to be a peacemaker, always ready to extend an olive branch.
Additionally, we can find peace in knowing that God is sovereign, and His plan is far greater than ours could ever be. Looking at 1 Thessalonians 5:18, and Philippians 4:8, we are reminded to approach all circumstances and situations with a spirit of thankfulness and fix our minds on the goodness of God. Practicing thankfulness, even in hardship, aligns our hearts with His peace, lifting us above worldly worry and division.
As we approach Thanksgiving, we should actively focus on the blessings in our lives—big and small. Choosing to be grateful in every situation transforms how we experience the world around us. There is always something to be thankful for; count your blessings.
Peaceful Support with Aromatherapy
In addition to prayer and counting our blessings, aromatherapy is a "scentsational" way to support your mood and emotions during times of stress. Essential oils like lavender, frankincense, and cedarwood are calming and grounding, helping to reduce anxiety and create a peaceful atmosphere. Citrus oils are bright and uplifting, blending well with the above oils. If you are feeling overwhelmed or are trying to maintain a calm, thankful attitude, try diffusing a calming blend or use a personal aromatherapy inhaler.
Gratitude Diffuser Blend to help promote a calm environment:
3 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
2 drops frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
2 drops sweet orange (Citrus sinensis)
Peaceful Mind Inhaler to call negative thinking:
5 drops cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana or Cedrus atlantica)
4 drops lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
4 drops mandarin (Citrus reticulata)
Herbs for Emotional and Immune Support
The holidays can bring both joy and stress, with the demands of winter often adding to emotional and physical fatigue. Herbal remedies offer natural support for our well-being during these times, helping relieve stress and boost immunity.
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra): A favorite for immune support, elderberry is especially beneficial during cold and flu season. This powerful berry can be made into elderberry syrup to strengthen immunity or brewed into a soothing elderberry tea to nourish the body.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): Known for its calming properties, lemon balm is an excellent herb for easing stress and anxiety. A cup of lemon balm tea before bed promotes relaxation and restful sleep, making it an ideal choice for unwinding at the end of a long day.
Tulsi/Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum): An adaptogen, tulsi helps the body manage stress and maintain a positive mood. Its adaptogenic properties make it a great choice for demanding, stressful times.
Spices such as cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, black pepper, and ginger add more than just flavor to seasonal dishes—they are rich in warming, immune-boosting, and mood-lifting properties. Adding a pinch of these spices to herbal teas can enhance circulation, uplift the spirits, and support immune health.
Herbal teas and tinctures crafted from these plants are an easy, natural way to calm your nerves, fortify your immune system, and boost overall wellness. For a versatile, immune-boosting tea, try blending elderberries with lemon balm and/or tulsi, adding a pinch of your favorite warming spices. This simple recipe is not only soothing but highly adaptable to personal tastes and needs, making it a delightful way to nourish ourselves.
Gather and Share
Thanksgiving is a time for coming together. This year, the same as every year, invite your family and friends over to rekindle bonds and come together over shared blessings. Even when political opinions differ, our call to love and support one another remains the same. Proverbs 15:1 tells us, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Approach conversations with patience and understanding, and be mindful of how you contribute to the atmosphere of your gatherings. Your attitude sets the tone, but you can also supplement that with aromatherapy—being mindful to create a welcoming atmosphere.
Welcoming Room Spray
2 oz spray bottle
0.5 oz high-proof alcohol (~190 proof)
1.5 oz cinnamon hydrosol or distilled water
6 drops sweet orange (Citrus sinensis)
6 drops mandarin (Citrus reticulata)
3 drops frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
Blend the ingredients in the spray bottle, shake well, label, and spritz around the room to create an uplifting and welcoming atmosphere.
Take Care
Taking care of ourselves is crucial, especially during stressful times. Whether it is through a relaxing bath, a soothing cup of herbal tea, or simply taking time to rest; taking care of ourselves honors the body God has given us. Take time to unwind with a warm cup of chamomile tea or a warm bath infused with lavender-infused bath salts. If you need extra support for your immune system, especially as the cold weather approaches, try using pine needles and sliced citrus in a simmer pot to freshen the air and support your immune system.
Destress Bath Salts
4 oz jar with lid
4 oz of salt (use a single salt or a blend of Himalayan, Epsom, dendritic, or sea salt)
1 oz of carrier oil or liquid Castile soap
2 drops mandarin (Citrus reticulata)
2 drops frankincense (Boswellia carterii)
1 Tbsp ground, dried lavender blossoms (optional, for added relaxation)
Combine all ingredients in a jar, shake well, and use a few spoonfuls in a warm bath to unwind and relieve stress.
Conclusion: Gratitude and Peace Through Christ
As we approach Thanksgiving and reflect on current events, it is important to remember that our peace comes from Christ alone. While the world may feel tumultuous, we can focus on gratitude and trust in God’s plan. Aromatherapy and herbs can be tools to help us through difficult times, building resistance and promoting wellness. Let this holiday season be a time of thanksgiving in all circumstances, truly loving others despite differences, and rest in the peace that surpasses all understanding.
If you would like some other aromatherapy and herbal ideas for the holidays ahead, check these out:
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