WOAH, it has been quite a week, and a tumultuous ride.
And... as you know, we could be on this roller coaster for a while yet.
Fear, anxiety, and stress are higher now in this country (and world) than ever. While this is totally natural during these incredibly uncertain times, I also want to remind us all (myself included) to go to our breath, our stillness, and our inner calm –– as often as possible.
As always, I am here to remind you of some important resources you can use to ensure your personal ride is as smooth and supported as possible.
I have a potent secret weapon for you today –– a powerful antidote for stress, anxiety and fear –– to ease your nervous system, quell your monkey mind and bring you home to yourself, no matter what is going on around you.
COMBAT STRESS (AND SLEEP DEEPER) WITH THIS POTENT SECRET INGREDIENT
Clearly, 2020 is proving to be a challenging year for many. The pandemic has made us fear for the health of our loved ones and wreaked havoc on our schedules. The news cycle, even beyond politics and this current election, has not offered much relief.
With so much out of control in our outside world, it is important you focus on what we can control to take care of ourselves within our inside worlds. One of my favorite ways to support the body during times of restless sleep, worry and stress is through the use of adaptogens.
What are Adaptogens?
Adaptogens are non-toxic plant extracts that have neuro-protective, anti-fatigue, and antidepressant properties. As a result, they decrease one’s sensitivity to stressors.
The study on adaptogens took off during WWII when there was a need to increase soldier’s stamina and performance while at war.
Subsequently, in the 1960’s the USSR took an interest in studying adaptogens. Since then, adaptogens have been studied worldwide and the number of recognized adaptogens has grown, each with unique properties but all meant to help the body return to peaceful homeostasis.
Common adaptogens include rhodiola, holy basil, ginseng, turmeric, and one of my personal favorites — ashwagandha.
Where Does Ashwagandha Come From?
The adaptogen ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) is an herb used in Ayurveda, a holistic medicine system that originated in India over 3,000 years ago.
Within the practice of Ayurveda, ashwagandha is considered herbal remedy that promotes longevity and vitality.
Ashwagandha is itself a native plant to India and some regions of Nepal. The herb is a part of the nightshade family and its beneficial properties come from the withanolide compounds that are found in the root of the plant. Withanolides bind to the cell receptor sites and can prevent an excess of stress hormone from being produced in the body.
The Benefits of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is most known for its stress-relieving properties. According to Psychology Today, a 2012 study found a significant decrease in anxiety when comparing the volunteers who took 300 mg of Ashwagandha each day, to those volunteers who took a placebo (over a period of two months).
In addition, ashwagandha can help support the body by:
Reducing fatigue
Improving sexual function
Supporting healthy thyroid functioning
Lowering inflammation
Increasing concentration
Not all supplements are created equal and it is important to get ashwagandha from a company who sources high-quality ingredients, combined correctly for the highest efficacy.
My Personal Experience
I have been taking Ashwagandha from FarmHaven as of late, and I am blown away by my new found sense of calm –– especially in the middle of the night!
Normally, if I wake up during the wee dark hours, my mind tends to find something to be anxious about, and there is a lot to choose from as of late!
Even just last night, election eve of all things, where my tension was higher than usual, I surprisingly slept better than I have in weeks.
That is no small feat for me.
FarmHaven blend their ashwagandha with ginger and a black pepper extract which boost the bioavailability of the ashwagandha.
FarmHaven Ashwagandha combines a 1200mg dose of organic ashwagandha root with 100mg of organic ginger root powder and 10mg of black pepper extract.
This formula is vegan, non-GMO and free from gluten, corn, soy, preservatives, and any artificial ingredients.
I stand by the quality and efficacy 100%. Want to give this a try?
I spoke to FarmHaven, and they are offering you 15% percent off your next order. Use the code BOULDERNUTRITION at checkout.
As always, I only recommend products that have superior quality and that I feel confident will support you in your health and healing.
Please let me know if you have any questions at all.
Here’s to calm days and restful nights ahead!
