Health For The Holidays


“It is possible to remain centered and calm throughout the holidays,” says Lisa Julien of The Chakra Spa. “There are a few simple tips that we share with our clients that really help them maintain balance and increase their enjoyment of the season.”  

The Chakra Spa is named for the Chakra therapy it practices -- a holistic therapy that clears blockages and corrects imbalances in a person’s auras or Chakras. Chakras are the seven main energy centers of the body according to Eastern medicine. They are in the center of the body, starting at the base of the spine and running up to the top of the head. It is through these energy "doorways" that universal life force energy is drawn in and channeled. The aim is to keep Chakras in alignment, to balance the energies between them, and keep Chakras from being either over- or underactive.

“During the holidays, it is far too easy for us to become over-stimulated,” says Lisa. “Our bodies cannot function properly under the stress, and toxins build up. We feel tired, depleted, drained.”

So, what’s a “too much to do and too little time to do it” type of person to do?

“It is essential that you take time for yourself, no matter how hectic your schedule,” says Lisa. “Women tend to put themselves on the bottom of the list for self-healing time, yet, because of our heavy workloads, we are actually the most in need of time to re-charge our batteries.”

The Chakra Spa suggests designating a small corner of your living space as a meditation or relaxation centre. Create an atmosphere of peace and serenity. A Meditation Lamp made with salts provides a calming glow, and purifies the air. Close the door, turn off the phone and take a 10-15 minute break.  You’ll feel rejuvenated and ready to tackle the rest of your day with calm and assurance.

A little bit of homemade colour therapy can also help. The colours of the season -- red, green, blue and silver -- each have their own power and can be a source of healing energy in our daily lives. Incorporate these colours into your life and see what happens. 

Red is an earth connection, representative of feeling grounded, secure, and in touch with your environment. It’s a great colour to wear when you’re feeling out of sorts and need to be energized.

Green is for emotion, the heart chakra. It denotes love, acceptance, forgiveness and compassion. Wear green to open your heart to loved ones.

Blue is the colour of communication, the throat chakra. Wear clear, bright sky blue to help you find the right words to say at the right time.

Silver can be associated with the chakra at the crown of the head, the centre of spiritual awareness. Wear silver for peace and oneness with the universe.

And finally, how can we control our tendency to overeat at this time of year, when tempted by so many delicious goodies? “Allow yourself to be conscious of what you are putting into your body,” recommends Lisa. “Make a plan before going out of what you are going to eat, and in what quantities. You may even want to write it down. It’ll make it easier to eat within your boundaries.”

You can also incorporate certain foods into your meals to help with the excesses of the season.  Eat whole grain breads at meals to absorb excess acids and oils, making them easy for your body to eliminate.

“Try drinking a glass of water with a squeeze of fresh lemon before dinner,” Lisa suggests. “Lemon cuts the acid and can help prevent you from getting sick.” 

The Chakra Spa 
1184 Eglinton Ave. West
(1 block east of Allen Road)
Phone: (416) 784-3438
www.thechakraspa.com