With innovative technology comes greater access to information, and while it’s important to stay informed, it’s equally as important to take care of the nervous system. As we continue to navigate these uncertain times, many of us are looking to nurture our resilience and support the body’s response to stressors. When you’re feeling untethered, leaning on these herbs, mushrooms, and lifestyle practices can promote a more grounded state of being.
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your health care practitioner before adding any new herbs to your wellness routine.
Herbs and Mushrooms for Cultivating Resilience
Reishi
Reishi is a nerve tonic and adaptogen, meaning it works to strengthen the nervous system and help the body adapt to stress. When we’re emotionally and mentally taxed, we release cortisol (a.k.a. the stress hormone) to cushion the impact. Reishi has been shown to regulate cortisol levels, creating a more balanced nervous system (1).
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has shown significant ability to reduce stress and anxiety. This herb works to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, as well as the sympathetic-adrenal-medullary (SAM) axes. These systems are integral to regulating the body's stress response (2). Participants in one particular study saw a 44% reduction in perceived stress and a 28% drop in cortisol levels with ashwagandha supplementation (3).
Find reishi and ashwagandha within our Adapt Herbal Artisan Tea, formulated to nurture your inner sunshine.
Passionflower
Passionflower promotes relaxation through its action on the cerebral cortex. This is the area of the brain responsible for reasoning, thought, and perception. By helping to slow down an overactive mind, passionflower nurtures feelings of calm (4). This herb has also been shown to improve perceived quality of life in patients suffering from nervous restlessness (5).
Hops
Herbalists often describe hops as a plant to counter nervous exhaustion. This nervine relaxant slows us down and helps ease us into an easygoing state of mind (6). Studies show that hops can have a mood-enhancing effect while significantly reducing self-reported anxiety and depression (7).
Find passionflower and hops in our Feel Calm Herbal Tincture Blend, crafted to promote relaxation and deep, restful sleep.
Lifestyle Practices for Cultivating Resilience
Enjoy the Outdoors
Spending even just 20-30 minutes outdoors can lower cortisol levels and uplift your mood. Feeling the sunshine on your skin, listening to the birdsong, and stopping to smell the flowers promotes mindfulness and presence in the moment, helping to nurture a grounded state of being.
Move Your Body
Physical activity is a great way to work out the day’s stressors, get those feel-good chemicals flowing, and promote restful sleep – just try not to overdo it! Low impact exercise such as walking, swimming, yoga, or pilates can give you all the benefits without activating the body’s stress response. For bonus points, mindfully incorporate breathwork into your activity.
Connect with Loved Ones
Some folks tend to isolate themselves when they’re feeling overwhelmed. Taking time for yourself is important but try to remember that your loved ones are there to support you, validate your feelings, and even distract you if circumstances call for it. Even just having one person in your life to lean on can make all the difference.
Set Healthy Boundaries
Take time to reflect and become aware of the things that trigger your stress response. Once you have a good idea of what they are, you can set boundaries to avoid escalation. Consider your values, prioritize your time and energy, and don’t be afraid to set limits where they’re needed.
Get Creative
Finding a hobby that activates your creativity can work wonders for clearing your mind. Whether it's knitting, colouring, or making music, having a fun task to focus on can provide a mental distraction while helping to decrease tension.
