Navigating a Non-Toxic Lifestyle During the Holidays

The holidays are quickly approaching, and this time of year can trigger a range of emotions.  

Throw wanting to make different choices when it comes to eating or staying at someone else’s home into the mix... and it can amp up the stress even more. Even if it’s close family members that just aren’t on your same page about diet, fragrances, laundry detergents, etc. 

It’s hard. It can feel isolating. You don’t want to offend others and at the same time you want to make the choices you believe are best for you and your family's health.

Navigating Different Opinions 

Toxins are so commonplace and virtually impossible to avoid completely that it can come across so extremely inconvenient and ridiculous when trying.

Harmful chemicals (and electromagnetic frequencies) are so insidious and ubiquitous that it seems like everyone has accepted them, and now it’s somehow weird or snobby to not want to eat certain foods or use chemicals in your home.

As a society we have to wake up to the fact that most companies and industries prioritize the bottom line of their financials over human health. We have to realize that we’ve grown accustomed (even addicted) to things not created for our best interest.

Yet, we also have to respect that people understand and care about this at different times, people have different priorities on what they spend their time and money on, and people make changes at their own pace.

My Personal Approach 

When I first became aware and passionate about everything I know now, I couldn’t understand why people weren’t as fired up as I was. I probably came on too strong and made people feel judged when that wasn’t my heart’s intent. I genuinely care and want the best for others!

But I had to figure out by trial and error the best approach that fits both my personality and others’ beliefs. Now, I thoughtfully discern when to speak up, when to hold my tongue, when to let my actions speak louder than words, and when to do things quietly behind the scenes without making something a big deal.

We all have the right to choose what matters to us and when we want to gently but confidently stand our ground. It’s not always easy, especially when you feel alone, are the brunt of the jokes or can sense people talking about you behind your back.

I don’t have all the answers and I’m not living this out perfectly. I just try my best to make the most responsible, respectful, and intentional choices I can while being true to myself yet not pushing it on others.

Try Not To Over-Stress

One of the biggest pieces of advice I give to others is to try not to over-stress about it all! I’m a big believer in fear and stress being one of the worst toxins of all. 

Because I am well and not trying to heal, I’m okay with going outside my norms in situations I cannot control from time to time. I want to enjoy my time with others and not be stressing out about things I can't change.

Again, it’s all about figuring out what your priorities are during your different stages of life.

Final Thoughts

Yes, this lifestyle does take more effort, more time and sometimes more money (but not always!) to avoid toxins. But it’s 100% worth it to me to feel healthy and believe I'm doing the right thing for my family. And no one can argue with that!