We know it won’t be the easiest of holidays. Covid has stretched us all thin emotionally. Some experience boredom leading to drama, others free-floating anxiety on a low burn. Too much togetherness or not enough togetherness — love suffers either way. Insomnia and nightmares are commonplace, and being alone with heartache at this time of year has always been especially difficult.

So here’s an Emergency Support Kit, with self-care and remedies to help survive until next year.

VANILLA SUGAR
For Sweetening the home, fill an airtight container with extra-fine baker’s sugar, plus 2 large vanilla beans. Recite Psalms 23 over your sugar or tape it to the jar.

HEAL MY HEART TEA
Combine lemon zest, shredded ginger, hyssop flowers, lavender buds, and peppermint in boiling water. Recite Psalms 51 over the brew and enjoy sweetened with honey.

TO RENEW AFFECTION
Add pumpkin pie spice and ground cardamom to hot cocoa — or just enjoy the aroma in simmering water on the stove!

SWEET DREAMS SACHET
For lucky and peaceful dreams, fill a muslin bag with lavender, calendula flowers, and hops. Read Psalms 4 before bedtime.

GUARDIAN ANGELS SPELL
Place a clean china plate atop a namepaper listing the residents of your home. Dress a blue or white cross candle with Peaceful Home Oil and place it in the center of the plate. Around it, put two protective circles of herbs: first lavender, hyssop, and mint, then rosemary, basil, and rue. Place four purple or red helper candles, dressed with Fiery Wall of Protection Oil, as guardians around the plate. Light as a centerpiece, taking care to stay safe.

May your days and nights be filled with gentleness until the new year!