Ashwaganda

Ahswaganda is an evergreen shrub grown in India, Africa, and the Middle East.  It's touted for it powerful medicinal abilities to relieve stress and anxiety and depression, increase energy and stamina, and aid with brain function and memory. It is also helpful in lowering cortisol levels in the bloodstream which making it one of the herbs that has become more popular in terms of natural health.

Cortisol is the body's natural protective mechanism in times of stress. It is what creates the flight, fight, freeze, or faint response whenever we encounter something we perceive as stressful. Many of us lives a high stress lifestyle making our cortisol levels chronically high. 

Some of the symptoms of high chronic high cortisol levels can be:

     * chronic pain

     * rapid weight gain

     *high blood pressure

     *muscle weakness

     * anxiety

     *depression

     *irritability

     *increased thirst and frequent urination

Over time chronic high cortisol levels can lead to adrenal fatigue and lack of function so it is important to manage your stress and find ways to reduce your cortisol levels.

Ashwaganda is a great herb to help in times of stress. It is tasty and can be sipped as a tea. For convenience it can also be taken in capsule or tincture form. Tincture form may be beneficial to have on hand if you know you are going into a stressful situation. Then as you begin to feel signs of stress a few drops under the tongue can give the support your body needs.

Ashwaganda taken along with a healthy diet and lifestyle can help your body function optimally and metabolize stress so that it doesn't stick with you giving you long term troubles.

Some helpful lifestyle habits can include:

     * Breathing exercises and meditation. Focus on breathing and counting. Count and breathe in for 3 seconds. Hold the breath for 5 seconds. Breathe out for 7 seconds. Repeat until you feel relaxed. Pay attention to how the breath feels. You want to have a full breath that flows easily and is relaxed.

• Set aside time for long walks in nature. Being in nature helps to feel more calm and peaceful. Soak in the sunshine to absorb Vitamin D.
• Eat healthy foods such as fresh vegetables, fruit, and whole grains. The closer to the natural form a food is the better for you. It is also helpful if you can soak your grains for 16 hours making them easier to digest and more nutritious. 
• Stay connected with family and friends. Be open with those you trust about the stressors you experience. Make it a priority to have time to laugh and unwind with people you enjoy being around.
• Create a regular sleeping routine and stick to it as much as possible. Turn off electronic devices one hour before bed. Use the blue light option on your screens in the evening. Go to bed at the same time. Try to wake up at the same time as well, even on the weekends or days you do not have to work.

If you have any other questions or are interested in having me walk along side you on your healing journey do not hesitate to contact me.