Everyone gets stressed out from time to time, but did you know your body can get “stuck” in a stressed-out state? It comes down to an imbalance in the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
The sympathetic nervous system is essentially the gas pedal of the body. It tells our body that there’s a (perceived) threat and we need to act accordingly. Our pulse quickens, our pupils dilate, we take in more oxygen, our adrenal glands start pumping out the “stress hormones” cortisol and adrenaline, as we prepare for a “fight or flight” response.
By contrast, our parasympathetic nervous system is akin to tapping on the breaks. It’s our “rest and digest” mode, and it’s where we want to be most of the time. Long periods of stress, both physical or emotional, can result in a dominant sympathetic nervous system, whereby the “gas pedal” overrides the “breaks,” and adrenal glands become overworked. This may manifest as exhaustion, sleep problems, anxiety, or the feeling of being “tired and wired.”
The good news is that certain herbs, along with stress management techniques, adequate rest and a healthy diet, can help rebalance and support a healthy stress response.
Key Herbs that Heal During Times of Stress
- Rhodiola: great for improving mood and minimizing mood swings
- Ashwaganda: a true adaptogen. It balances daytime and nighttime cortisol levels, so it’s revitalizing when taken during the day, and calming when taken at night
- Magnolia: may help for those who are unable to sleep through the night due to stress
- L-Theanine: an amino acid found in black tea that promotes calming brain waves
- Korean ginseng: can be helpful for stress, fatigue, insomnia or depression
Adrenal support formulas may utilize one or two herbs, or a blend of several, along with vitamin C and B vitamins. Some of our most popular supplements include the following:
Adrenal Support Quick Guide:
- Feeling run down? Ginst 15 Elixir supports with calm energy and focus
- If you’re tired then wired, consider Rosavin and 200mg of Zen
- Can’t stay asleep? Try Cortisol Manager
- Mind won’t stop chattering? Try WellMind
- All of the above? Maybe AdreneVive could be helpful
- Completely wiped out? Come see us for a tune-up!
For the best fit, speak to your TMC healthcare provider for guidance.
Always be sure to speak to your healthcare provider before starting an adrenal support supplement, especially if you have high blood pressure.
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