Find Your Happy Place

April 05, 2019

Our bodies have evolved a stress response system that protect us against immediate threats, such as predators. Despite the rarity of such threats (at least for many of us), the stress response still plays a prevailing role in our day-to-day lives.

Chronic stress can be caused by many factors, including financial burdens, excessive workloads, and tight schedules. If left untreated, chronic stress can lead to an anxiety disorder, which currently affects 18% of the adult population in the United States. No matter the cause(s) of the stress in your life, there are steps you can take to naturally relieve the build up of chronic stress and find your happy place. 

Nutrient Rich Diet

Diet is potentially the most powerful intervention tool that we have. What you eat has a direct impact on your overall mental health, so the first place to start combating stress is in the kitchen. Eating high quality vegetables, which contain lots of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, give your body the resources it needs to keep your body running optimally.

Regular Exercise

Exercise in combination with a healthy diet should be your first line of defense in the war against chronic stress. Exercise has been shown to have some direct stress reducing benefits throughout the body, such as:

• Increases Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). Regular exercise has been shown to increase the production of BDNF. In the brain, this protein both repairs existing brain cells and facilitates the development of new neurons. Chronic stress has been shown to reduce BDNF levels, so exercise is an effective way to increase BDNF naturally.

• Improve Immune Function & Lower Inflammation. Recent studies have shown that there may be a link between the inflammatory response and depression. Studies have demonstrated that exercise establishes a healthy balance between M1 and M2 macrophages, which are immune cells that fight infections. Too much M1 can cause chronic inflammation, so it is important to maintain a balance for optimal immune response.

• Increases Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 (FGF2). FGF2 is a human growth factor that control parts of the brain involved in mood and emotions. Low levels of FGF2 have been associated with depression and anxiety. Exercise has been shown to elevate levels of FGF2 in the brain, helping combat the symptoms of depression and anxiety at a molecular level.

Sauna Use
Sauna use stimulates production of your bodies "feel good" neuropeptides called beta-endorphins, which can have long lasting benefits on mood and well-being. Regular sauna use has been shown to lower levels of cortisol, your body's main stress hormone. The sauna provides a variety of benefits on a molecular level as well, including the production of heat shock proteins, reduction of reactive oxygenated species, reduced oxidative stress, and inflammation pathway activities.

Breathing Method

4-7-8 breathing is a simple breathing technique designed to be a natural tranquilizer for your nervous system. While performing this exercise, be sure to sit up straight.

1. Close your mouth and inhale through your nose for a count of four.
2. Hold your breath for a count of seven.
3. Exhale completely through your mouth for a count of eight.
4. This is one breath. Inhale again and repeat the cycle three more times or until you are relaxed.

Breathing exercises are a great natural tool to combat anxiety and stress right when it starts to present itself. It is a great on-the-spot technique that can be done by anyone, just about anywhere.


Natural Adaptogens

Ashwagandha Root Extract - 
Ashwagandha has been used for centuries in ayurvedic medicine for its restorative properties. Extensive research has confirmed that Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen that can reduce the levels of the stress hormone cortisol throughout the body. High cortisol levels have been associated with chronic stress, impaired immune function, weight gain, and high blood pressure. A recent study with 64 adults showed that a full spectrum Ashwagandha Root extract given twice daily for 60 days had a significant impact on reducing stress and anxiety. Our Zen formula contains a full spectrum Ashwagandha Root extract to ensure you get the same benefits as shown in the study.

Rhodiola rosea Extract - 
Rhodiola rosea is an herb native to the arctic areas of Eurasia and has a long history of use due to its fatigue-fighting properties. Rhodiola has been shown to relieve or reduce the symptoms of fatigue, including muscle aches and soreness, impaired judgement, and diminished capacity for mental work. Rhodiola has also been shown to help your body return to normal homeostasis after being exposed to stress. Our Zen formula contains a high quality Rhodiola rosea extract to ensure you benefit from its regenerative and potent antioxidant properties.

By using a combination of lifestyle changes and natural plant extracts, dealing with chronic stress can become a little easier to manage. The healthier you are physical, the stronger you will become mentally. Imagine the world that we could create if everyone was a little healthier and a little less stressed. That is why we developed Zen, to help everyone manage the stress in their lives and make better decisions. Better decisions means better people, which will inevitably lead to a better world.

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