It's Only A Holiday, Everyone. Remain Calm.

Merry Whatever Everybody!

The holiday season is, indeed, a great time to get together with friends, loved ones, and unloved ones, to enjoy a lot of food, and money well (hopefully) spent. However, for a lot of us, it can also be a very stressful time. Between strained finances, busy schedules, and reminders of personal voids, many people can find themselves down with a case of the Ebenezers. The Batu Crew have done some winter brainstorming to bring you a locally comprehensive list of things you can do and give to yourself and others, to De-stress and Re-cheer.


"ROOOOO ROOOO ROOO" That is the sound of an elephant seal. Mating. In San Simeon. While we are busy buying, they are busy...getting busy. It's a unique experience and get away that can re-connect one with nature, immerse one in the beautiful scenic drive up the California coast, and make one contemplate, well, seals gettin' it on. That last one may not be a stress reliever, but it IS interesting.

"Shoe fly, don't bother me... oh wait, you're a Butterfly... sorry, my bad... " To the south and the north in our little central coast haven, Monarch Butterflies, the harbingers of delight, can be seen fluttering amongst relaxing Eucalyptus trees. If you've never had one of those little orange happiness airplanes land near you, you are missing out on one of the most invigorating and joyous experiences this area has to offer.

"It's not the money I'll miss... it's all the stufffffff...." Bernadette, you have a point. Stuff CAN be awesome. Especially if it's a basket full of relaxing stuff. Stuff you can get right here at your local House of Bamboo, such as aromatherapy candles, cozy bathrobes, and inspirational scrolls for encouragement and wisdom!

Baby It's Cold Outside: so enjoy a dunk in the pleasant and warm Sycamore Hot Springs. Great for your skin, and your mind, this is sure to relax and warm from the inside out on a cold day.

Tea Time: Hot tea can put you in a mellow mood, and warm the spirits. However, some Kava Kava tea from The Secret Garden will put you on a different level of relaxation. The Secret Garden carries an array of herbs and teas that can elevate your spirits and keep you level headed during the holiday crazies.

Time spent with other people is wonderful, enriching and educational, but it's also important to remember to take time for yourself during the holidays. Here's to whatever keeps you mellow!