For the last six months or so, we've all been collectively navigating unprecedented times coupled with a 24/7 news cycle, and with that comes a lot of anxiousness and uncertainty. Undoubtedly taking these moments to shift our focus to what really matters— health, family, community, and positivity plays a big part in how we collectively move forward. Below, we unpack the science behind why carving out moments of self-care is more essential than ever right now.
1. Get a solid night's rest
Inadequate sleep, which is defined by length, quality, and regularity, plagues upwards of 70 million Americans, and it doesn’t just make us tired in the morning. Anxiety is an external factor that can lead to insomnia and sleeplessness. As some research and anecdotal evidence suggests, CBD can help manage the negative impact that anxiety has on sleep.
What’s more, poor sleep can trigger a cascade of physical and emotional consequences, including increased stress, memory, and cognitive impairment, elevated hunger levels and sugar cravings, and a weakened immune system. When it comes to getting a good night’s rest, we suggest a few simple things: eating at the same time every day to keep your body’s circadian rhythm in sync, establishing a nighttime routine (this includes limiting late-night screen time), and keeping your sleeping quarters at 68 degrees.
2. Consider a natural remedy, like CBD
Prescription drugs for mild anxiety often come with habit-forming risk, which is why so many turn to natural remedies like Feals CBD oil for help quieting the mind. And beyond just the lack of habit-forming risks, reduced anxiety has been one of the most consistently observed effects in both animal and human studies done around CBD.
While everyone’s ideal dosage is unique, starting with a ¼ dropper and working your way up, adding or subtracting on a daily basis until you feel the intended effects.
3. Just move
The simple act of moving your body—whether it’s streaming a yoga class or something more high energy like HIIT is important. You can even take a walk around the block or a hike if that’s easily accessible to you. (Just remember, stay 6 feet apart from others!) Research consistently shows that physical activity increases your body’s production of endorphins, which in turn, gives you feel-good vibes and a welcome burst of energy.
4. Try meditation
Studies suggest that mindfulness meditation greatly impacts one’s mental and physical health by alleviating stress, increasing focus, and improving sleep. Start by carving out anywhere from 5 to 20 distraction-free minutes and you’re already on your way. Developing your own meditation practice serves as a quick-fix when you’re feeling stressed by helping to reverse your body’s reaction to stress and promote a sense of calm. Your immune function improves. Your adrenal glands produce less cortisol (a hormone closely linked with stress) and you’re using oxygen more efficiently.
And not unlike regular CBD use, a regular meditation practice in your tool kit can help build up resilience to stressors.
5. Don't forget your greens
We’re bombarded with messaging around staying away from processed foods, sugar, excessive alcohol and caffeine intake. But let’s face it, those are so often the things we crave, particularly when we’re feeling anxious. Particularly in times like these, it’s essential to keep your immune system healthy, which means a balanced diet of whole foods like fruits, leafy veggies, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
