This time of the year can be difficult when dealing with complicated family dynamics. Strained relationships are easily exacerbated with the stress of holidays. If you know you will be encountering uncomfortable situations, plan to have some backup at hand.

Gather together a small piece of amethyst, a small piece of quartz, 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds, 1 tablespoon dried jasmine buds, 1 tablespoon dried rose petals, and 4 drops of vanilla extract.

You can use a small drawstring cloth bag to hold the ingredients, or you can sew the ingredients into a small pouch or pillow. Begin by adding the stones and then the herbs. Top off with the drops of vanilla so it can soak in a little. Close and tie off the drawstring bag or sew your pillow pack shut.

Keep your stress sack with you when you know you will be in an environment where you may need it. When you feel stressed, squeeze your sack, sniff it, and squish it between your fingers. Take some deep breaths and relax.