Healthy Connections & Herbs for Relaxation

Today we’re looking at the importance of social connection and herbs for relaxation. If you need more relaxation in your life, (like the vast majority of us do), read on to discover some simple ways to reduce stress and balance your nervous system.

Allostatic Load

‘Allostatic load’ is the balance of relaxation and stress in your nervous system.  Having a balanced allostatic load means that you are able to respond to life - not stuck in the past, or worried about the future. Being in balance means you are not stressing your body too much, but experiencing enough eustress (beneficial stress) to create growth and remain engaged with life.

These are difficult times! Stress levels are rising along with the cost of living, social upheaval, political division, and a million other issues that make life stressful. Ignoring high stress levels can lead to burnout, and too many of us are there already. 

Burnout can lead to physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, insomnia, and stomach aches, as well as feelings of anxiety, irritability, and overwhelm - to the point that it seems impossible to continue with life.  

Your car has an accelerator and brake, and your body also has two energy ‘states’; relaxation or stress. Your job is to balance the two forces and not get stuck in either!

Experiencing a sense of peace and calmness is vital to protect yourself from the damaging effects of exposure to chronic stress. Having a balanced allostatic load is associated with feelings of happiness and well-being. When we are in balance life's challenges seem much more manageable and we can think more clearly. 

Balancing Your Allostatic Load

One way to balance your allostatic load is to engage in regular physical activity. It’s also important to manage stress levels through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga or qigong. 

Getting enough sleep and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption will also help to reduce your allostatic load. It’s also helpful to surround yourself with supportive friends and family, connection reduces stress. 

We’re social creatures for a reason. Engaging with others in social activities provides a sense of connection and support, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Socializing can also help protect against depression and other mental health issues, and even boost the immune system and improve physical health, all of which create greater relaxation.

Social Connections Promote Relaxation

Relaxation and social connection often go hand in hand. For example, spending time with friends or loved ones that truly know you allows you to be yourself, and when you’re allowed to be yourself you can relax. Socializing can involve physical activities such as walking, dancing, or playing sports, which reduce tension and increase blood flow. These activities also release endorphins to improve mood and reduce pain.

Friendship is an essential part of a healthy and fulfilling life. It can provide support, comfort, and companionship, and fortifies mental and physical health. Research has shown that people with strong social connections are more likely to be happy and have lower rates of depression, anxiety, and stress. They also tend to have better cognitive function and a stronger immune system. 

In today's fast-paced and often stressful world, it’s vital we make time for relaxation and social connections. Taking care of your own mental and emotional well-being will improve your health, happiness, and your allostatic load. 

Herbs for Relaxation

When we feel relaxed we naturally find it easier to connect with others. Conversely, stress makes us fearful and less likely to want to interact or engage. Overwhelming emotions make us want to run away and hide, not meet up and socialize. 

Fortunately, Mother Nature provided us with relaxing herbs that reduce your allostatic load and reduce social anxiety. These are three of Mother Nature’s best herbs for relaxation:

Hemp

Hemp has been used for its therapeutic properties for centuries. It is a rich source of various compounds, including cannabidiol (CBD) and terpenes, which have a variety of health benefits, including relaxation and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects.

CBD, a non-intoxicating compound found in hemp, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help to reduce chronic pain and improve overall well-being. Hemp also contains a range of terpenes, which are aromatic compounds that give the plant its distinctive smell. Some of these terpenes, such as linalool and limonene, have been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative effects, helping to promote relaxation.

Chamomile

Chamomile is another plant that’s been used for centuries for its therapeutic properties. Flavonoids in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, are known to promote relaxation. Luteolin has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system and can help to induce sleep. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which help to reduce pain and improve overall well-being.

Chamomile also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects, which may help to improve overall health and well-being. Chamomile is also widely used as a natural remedy for digestive problems, such as indigestion and nausea.

Valerian Root

Taken from the valerian plant which is native to Europe and Asia, it’s a plant with a thick, fleshy root. It’s typically brown or tan in color and has a rough, knotty texture. It’s been a trustworthy friend to humanity for hundreds of years as a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia. Valerian contains compounds that calm the nervous system.

Research has shown that valerian root is as effective as the standard medication for anxiety, but without side effects. In addition to its potential effects on anxiety and sleep, valerian root may also have other benefits for relaxation, including anti-inflammatory and pain relieving effects, which improve overall well-being.

We weren’t designed to carry all the weight by ourselves; seek help from good friends, family and herbs to fulfill your deepest relaxation needs.