Tea Health

Stress Support

Written by Sarita Merlo | Nov 3, 2020 7:12:46 AM

Are you finding it hard to keep up with the busy pace of your life and just getting by? Working, eating, sleeping and doing this again and again, day in and day out? Many people's lives are so unbalanced with extremely long work hours, very little sleep, eating on the run, and no time to relax and unwind. I believe that stress has a major impact on people's lives on every level- physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. And, there is no one quick fix to address this!  It is obviously essential that the cause of the stress be recognised and the necessary changes made. There are also some additional ways that we can support our nervous system in times of stress through changes in our diet and the use of nutrition and herbal medicine.
 
Long term and chronic stress has been associated with many diseases such as obesity, thyroid disorders, depression, anxiety, low immunity and cardiovascular disorders. If we are in that "fight-flight" stress response for a prolonged period the adrenal glands can become exhausted and fatigue can set in. Stimulants (including caffeine, nicotine and sugar) are commonly used as that quick "pick-me-up" to get us through the day, but unfortunately the effect of these can be weakened with consistent and prolonged use. To get that wake up stimulant effect from stimulants, more is required and it becomes a vicious cycle that can seriously impact on our health. To restore adrenal function, it is extremely important that stimulants are eliminated, that you get adequate rest, and have a good, clean, balanced diet as the foundation. B complex vitamins and Magnesium can also be used to supplement the diet and nourish the nervous system.
 

Sarita's Top 10 Tips for Stress Support

  1. Eat well to get adequate nutrition by following a balanced diet with 40% complex carbodhyrates, 30% protein and 30% good quality fats.
  2. Incorporate exercise into your day by walking/running/cycling to and from work.
  3. Take 20 minutes to eat lunch away from your desk.
  4. Have a walk, bath or cup of tea for relaxation at the end of the day rather than a glass of wine or other alcoholic drink.
  5. Drink less coffee and more tea and herbal tea.
  6. Get adequate sleep.
  7. Enjoy some form of relaxation, for example yoga or meditation, on a daily basis.
  8. Exercise every day for at least 30 minutes
  9. Take a good quality B complex vitamin supplement and Magnesium to nourish the nervous system.
  10. Find some activities that you enjoy and work less if necessary.

Sarita's Top 4 BBTC Teas for Stress Support

1. CALMING

An exquisite, soothing evening tea combining Chamomile and Limeflower with Vanilla bean and Cinnamon. The perfect way to relax and unwind at the end of a long, stressful day. Pure bliss.
Ingredients: Chamomile* Lime blossoms  Passionflower*  Vanilla bean*  Cinnamon*
(* Certified Organic)

Chamomile(Matricaria recutita)-widely recognised for its relaxing properties and gentle sedative action and can assist in treating anxiety and insomnia.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)- traditionally used by Native American tribes as an overall well-being tonic and today it is used as a herbal medicine to treat nervous tension, anxiety and insomnia.

Lime blossoms (Tilia europa)- well known for its relaxing properties that helps to ease nervous tension, anxiety and raised blood pressure.

Follow this link to purchase Calming.


2. TUMMY TONE


A wicked tea to entice the licorice lovers. Combining the refreshing properties of peppermint with the tasty treats of licorice and aniseed myrtle, this specialty blend will linger long on the palate. Particularly beneficial after meals to settle the tummy or satisfy your sweet tooth.  
Ingredients- Licorice root*, Fennel seeds*, Aniseed Myrtle, Peppermint*.
(*Certified Organic)

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)- Licorice is an adrenal tonic that may assist in times of stress. The adrenal gland produces important hormones involved in the stress response. If there has been chronic stress, the adrenals can become exhausted and in need of support.

Peppermint (Mentha peperita) and Fennel Seeds (Foeniculum vulgare)- are excellent digestive herbs to assist in times of stress. When you are in a state of stress, digestion becomes a secondary function whilst the body puts all its energy into dealing with what is at hand. Encouraging the secretion of enzymes and hydrochloric acid by the use of these herbs and improving digestive function more generally has benefits for overall health.



Follow this link to purchase Tummy Tone.


3. ENERGY


Brighten your day with this clean, balanced and lively infusion of Green tea, Siberian Ginseng, Gotu Kola and mixed berries. A perky and delightful tea to pick you up in the morning, inspire your afternoon, or energise your evening. A healthy alternative to coffee. Enjoy!
Ingredients: Green tea*  Gotu Kola*  Siberian ginseng*  Blackcurrants, Strawberries, Blackberries, Hibiscus, Rosehips, Bilberries, Elderberries (* Certified organic)

Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)- The amino acid L-theanine, which is found in the tea plant, has been known to have a profound effect on the nervous system. Theanine is absorbed by the small intestine and crosses the blood-brain barrier where it influences the “feel-good” neurotransmitters of the brain (serotonin and dopamine). This in turn increases the alpha brain-wave activity and has the effect of producing a calmer, yet more alert, state of mind.

Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)- recognised in Asia for thousands of years as an energy boosting tonic. Ginseng is used as an "adaptogen"- a herb that increases the body's general resistance to all types of stress. It works by increasing the supply of oxygen to all cells in your body, thereby improving your alertness and endurance.

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)- recognised in India as a herb that improves memory and concentration and extends longevity.

Rosehips (Rosa canina)- provides one of the best natural and freely available sources of vitamin C making it useful in treating weakness and debility and beneficial in times of prolonged stress.



Follow this link  to purchase Energy.

4. WHITE

Pai Mu Tan is a delicate and refreshing tea that is derived from the young, silvery leaves of the tea plant during early spring. It contains a high level of antioxidants, is lower in caffeine than other tea and comes with a broad range of health benefits. Sweet floral and nutty aromas complement the smooth yet mild flavour, making this an enjoyable refreshment any time of the day.
Ingredients- White Tea (Camellia sinensis)

White Tea & The Nervous System
The amino acid L-theanine, which is found in the tea plant, has been known to have a profound effect on the nervous system. Theanine is absorbed by the small intestine and crosses the blood-brain barrier where it influences the “feel-good” neurotransmitters of the brain (serotonin and dopamine). This in turn increases the alpha brain-wave activity and has the effect of producing a calmer, yet more alert, state of mind. White tea is a great option in periods of high stress especially when you are making an effort to keep your caffeine consumption low.


 
Follow this link to purchase White tea.

BUY ALL 4 TEAS IN BLISS GIFT COLLECTION FOR $54.95

Including a box of Calming, Tummy Tone, Energy and White tea
 
Disclaimer: Please consult your Naturopath or Doctor if you have any health concerns