Can Tea Help to Relieve Stress?
Whether it’s a work deadline, personal conflict, or other reason, we have all dealt with stress at some point in our lives. The main stress I have in my life as a rising senior is the big question of which college and career I will pursue. Ever since the beginning of junior year there has been pressure to figure out my future. As a result of this, I have this feeling of stress in the back of my mind: stress that I am going to pick the wrong school, the wrong major, or waste the time and money. On the other side, my parents must deal with the stress of financing college, work, and other adult problems. Stress is something that everyone lives with, but there are healthy ways to deal with it.
Stress is a state of mental anxiety caused by a demanding situation. It is a natural human response that enables us to respond to and face challenges. Although stress is a necessary part of life, too much stress can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes. It is important to note that there are two kinds of stress: long term and short-term stress. Short term stress happens over a period of minutes to days, usually related to one incident like a doctor dentist visit or a presentation. During this period of stress, you may feel your heart beating faster, shortness of breath, sweating, and chest pain. Long term stress is ongoing and lasts months or years. It can change in severity over time. You also experience more severe symptoms such as emotional withdrawal, low energy, weight gain, trouble sleeping, and change in focus. Long term stress increases inflammation in your body which can leave you susceptible to other illnesses.
Another factor of stress is your diet. There are good and bad ways your diet can affect stress. Have you ever tried eating your feelings through chocolate, ice cream, or other comfort foods? Though we all have done it, this can make your stress worse. Sugar creates changes in your body that may trigger anxiety. It also makes the inflammation in your body increase. This is a dietary choice that is highly conducive to stress.
Tea, especially varieties such as green, black, and herbal teas, can actually help to manage stress. The natural compounds found in tea play various roles in stress reduction. Green tea, for instance, contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and enhances the brain's function, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Regular consumption of black tea has been linked to a reduction in cortisol levels, a stress hormone, potentially promoting a sense of calm. Herbal teas, like chamomile and peppermint, are known for their soothing properties that can help induce a state of relaxation and improve sleep quality. Even the ritual of preparing and drinking tea can offer a quiet mindfulness moment that can alleviate daily stress.
If you are looking to try a natural tea for stress, we recommend checking out the 50Cups Destress Tea. This tea contains chamomile, valerian root, and vanilla beans. Chamomile contains an antioxidant called apigenin, which connects to different brain receptors which may decrease anxiety and help sleep. Valerian root may help regulate nerve cells and calm anxiety. Vanilla bean contains calcium which lowers your cortisol levels. One of our Wellness Blend Variety, this healthy tea is delicious, soothing, and great for stress.
Remember that taking care of your mind is a large part of holistic wellness. While tea is not a substitute for medication, the natural benefits can be great for both mental and physical health, including stress relief.