With shopping deadlines, endless sugary temptations and family pressures, is this really the most wonderful time of the year?

When it comes to the spirit of giving and radiant, festive décor we definitely feel the holiday love, but around this time of year stress and anxiety tends to run at an all time high.

Know the feeling well? Try these 7 foods to find your calm this holiday season:

1. Root Vegetables

Vegetables that grow from the earth’s soil offer a sense of groundedness. When we’re running around buying gifts and attending holiday parties, we start to feel like we’re spinning, which generally causes anxiousness. Eating veggies like parsnips, carrots, beets and Restore (literally) brings you down to earth.

2. Oatmeal

Oatmeal not only fills your stomach with ‘good’ carbs, it causes your brain to produce serotonin, a feel-good chemical that helps overcome stress. And beta-glucan, the type of soluble fiber found in oatmeal, offers immune-enhancing benefits to keep the body healthy and happy.

3. Holy Basil (Tulsi)

As an adaptogen, this member of the mint family helps the body respond to stress. Adaptogens beat stress by helping to shield and protect the nerves. Also known as “Tulsi” holy basil is also a powerful antioxidant with demonstrated antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Kava Kava

This western Pacific crop is primarily consumed to relax. The roots of the plant can be made into a nice warm brew and is traditionally used for soothing methods. Evidence also concluded it was likely to be more effective than placebo at treating short-term social anxiety.

5. Ginger

Ginger contains the antioxidant gingerol, which fights bad chemicals in our bodies that lead to psychological and physical stress. Recent research has shown that ginger can also aid in pain relief, including stress headaches. There are several ways to integrate ginger into your diet: slice some fresh ginger and place in a cup of hot water, ground it up and add it to a baking recipe or try our Ginger Bomb!

6. Fish

Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish including salmon and tuna can help balance stress hormones and tame mood swings. Aim to eat three ounces of fatty fish at least two times a week. Not a seafood fan? Try adding flaxseed to your oatmeal.

7. Peppermint

For the sleep-deprived, the menthol in peppermint relaxes muscles and is very good as a sleep-aid – falling asleep is a lot easier when your body is actually relaxed and rid of tension. And just in time for the holidays, here’s our fave peppermint treat!