Summer is coming to a close, which means there may be a handful of things causing a bit of stress as you think about back-to-school and work season. That’s why we’re giving you some innovative new ways to help you stay cool and collected, all while looking and feeling your best! This month, Keri Glassman, Nutritious Life, is all about post-summer revitalization. We’ve got fresh tips that will help you relax your mind, reinvigorate your senses, recharge your body and rejuvenate your skin. Enjoy!

Stress: Holy Basil! Originally grown in India, holy basil has been used for years in Ayurvedic medicine to help cure a host of health problems like bronchitis, asthma, and arthritis. These days, aside from just tasting great, holy basil is more commonly used to treat stress. Research finds that compared to two different types of ginseng, holy basil is the most potent anti-stress agent of all three. Next time you're at the supermarket and can't decide between holy basil, lemon basil, or Thai basil leaves, opt for the holy basil leaves.  

Diet: This month add Nopales (also called nopalitos) to your Mexican recipes. Nopales are actually cactus pads, which are then cut into strips and cooked. Before they're cooked, they have a pretty gooey consistency, but don't worry- they taste great and are loaded with soluble fiber to help lower cholesterol.  In addition, Nopales are a good source of vitamins A, C, K, B6, as well as choline, which may help reduce your risk of Alzheimer's disease.  Next time you're planning on whipping up a Mexican inspired dish like black bean dip, spicy gazpacho soup, or lime jalapeño chicken, think of adding Nopales for a quick nutrient boost.

Sleep: Trouble sleeping? Here's an easy trick that may help you catch up on zzz's: Next time you eat a dish that includes rice, opt for brown rice instead of white. The glutamine in brown rice produces GABA (gamma amino butyric acid) which has been shown to reduce anxiety and increase relaxation. The more GABA producing foods you eat, the more GABA your body will create, so ask for your sushi or side dish to be prepared with brown rice, and you just may begin to sleep more restfully!

Fluids: This month, try something new and make yourself a kettle of red tea. Red tea is indigenous to South Africa and has a sweeter, nuttier taste than green or black tea. It is caffeine free, and packed with antioxidants that may prevent signs of aging. Plus, red tea has long been used to decrease restlessness and improve relaxation. Don’t believe us? See for yourself and try one of Celestial Seasonings red tea brews.

Personal time: Next time you find a moment to yourself, stop by your local florist to stop and smell the roses. Did you know that smelling roses helps relieve stress!?! Roses contain a special compound called linalool, the smell of which may induce a calming sensation, and reduce anxiety. Don’t have time to get to the florist? No worries! Try a rose scented product like Sabon’s rose scented soaps, bath salts or candles, and say goodbye to your stress-induced back aches!

Exercise: You’re headed to the gym and hunger is beginning to strike… Guess what? It’s the perfect time for you to eat an apple! Studies show that apples contain a good amount of quercetin, a nutrient that boosts oxygen uptake and exercise endurance. Not only will the snack help curb your appetite, it will give you an added boost of energy, and you’ll be able to exercise for a longer period of time without becoming fatigued.

Beauty: For those of you who have been hitting the beach this summer, a pumpkin could be the perfect thing to use on your skin. Pumpkins are high in the antioxidants, vitamins A and C, as well as alpha-hydroxy. The acidic value of pumpkins helps to remove excess skin cells and exfoliate, while, the vitamin A (retinol) will act as a mild cleanser to soothe and soften your skin. Try cutting a pumpkin up and mixing it into an existing mask or your favorite skin cream. Pumpkins have a very high acidic value, and while they'll help you achieve a refreshed glow, it's important to remember that a little bit goes a long way! 

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