Ashwagandha: Your Secret Weapon Against Stress and Anxiety

If you're feeling stressed out on a day-to-day basis, you're not alone. Women have higher rates of these conditions and other psychological disorders including panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder than men (Cleveland Clinic). There are so many buzzwordy supplements, and everyone and her dog is talking about cortisol levels - but how can you actually start to reduce your stress levels?

It's not as simple as one solution, unfortunately, but I am on a never-ending mission to find every stress relief hack I can. One of my all-time favourites? Ashwagandha.

Understanding Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera, is an Ayurvedic herb renowned for its stress-relieving properties. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and has been used for centuries in traditional Indian medicine to promote balance and vitality. I've been taking Ashwagandha for a few years now to help with my anxiety and improve my sleep. I found it super interesting that when I started with my personal trainer, it was the first thing she told me to add to my supplements regimen (shout out to Abbie at Crowns Fitness).

How Ashwagandha Works

As an adaptogen, Ashwagandha helps your body adapt to stress by supporting the adrenal glands. These glands are responsible for producing cortisol, the primary stress hormone. By regulating cortisol levels, Ashwagandha can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.

Benefits of Ashwagandha

• Stress Reduction: Ashwagandha is widely recognised for its ability to lower cortisol levels, helping you feel calmer and more relaxed.

• Improved Focus: By reducing stress, anxiety and mental fatigue, Ashwagandha can enhance concentration and focus.

• Better Sleep: Many people report improved sleep quality when taking Ashwagandha due to its calming effects.

• Boosted Immunity: Some studies suggest that Ashwagandha can strengthen the immune system.

• Increased Energy Levels: While it might seem counterintuitive, Ashwagandha can help combat fatigue by promoting better sleep and stress management.
  

Incorporating Ashwagandha into Your Self-Care Routine for Stress and Anxiety

To experience the full benefits of Ashwagandha, consider incorporating it into your daily routine. It's available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and tinctures. You can add Ashwagandha powder to smoothies, tea, or yoghurt for a convenient way to consume it.

Remember: It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding.   

Ashwagandha is a super affordable, accessible addition that you can make to your self-care routine. It's a baby step, but it can help you take significant steps towards reducing stress, improving focus and enhancing your overall wellbeing.

Keep on punching!

xxK

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