This week’s #MedicineMakingMonday is all about taking a mindful approach to caring for yourself in times of stress as well as before. The more we can take proactive steps to nourish the nervous system, the more equipped we are and feel in navigating life’s ups and downs.
In a time when so much chaos is swirling at every turn, and much of the fate of society hangs in a limbo of uncertainty, our minds and bodies are absorbing so much. Many of us are moving through life carrying stress that weighs tons and too often do not have a container to unpack it all and decompress.
This leaves us overstimulated and undernourished. But don’t worry; we can still take back our power. Here are some simple, yet powerful ways to help nourish your nervous system, find balance, and stay grounded with the support of herbal allies. [Always consult your healthcare provider before trying herbal remedies. This is solely for educational purposes.]:
1. Lean Into Nervine Plants for Support
Herbal medicine has long been a go-to for calming and nurturing the nervous system, and for good reason! There are so many plant allies that can help ease stress and support your body in forming healthier responses to stress and tension. These are nervine herbs and even adaptogen herbs. Nervine herbs are herbs that nourish, support, and soothe the nervous system. Adaptogenic herbs are herbs that improve the body's response to stress over time.
It's never too late to change one's relationship to stress. Gone unchecked, stress can wreak havoc in the body, weaken bodily functions and the healthy function of organ systems. Nervine herbs can be incorporated into your daily routine in a variety of ways:
- Herbal teas: Brew calming teas from plants like chamomile, rose, lemon balm, and valerian root. These herbs are known for their ability to soothe and protect the nervous system as well as provide sleep support.
- Oatmeal The humble oat plant is a magical nervine that can help nourish and calm the nervous system. Enjoy a good-quality oatmeal breakfast to start your day, or prepare an infusion of Milky Oat Tops or Oatstraw which are also parts of the power Oat plant. Oat contains nutrients that can repair the cells of the nervous system. This herb is an ally to all ages. Works best in longterm use.
- Baths: Baths are an essential tool of spiritual and emotional hygiene and wellness. Incorporating herbs into our baths is a powerful ancient practice of many indigenous cultures. Add herbal allies such as lavender, sage, rose, and rosemary can all help clear negative energy, support emotional balance, and nourish self love and intuition.
2. Nourish Your Body with Vitamin D and B12
One of the best ways to support your body during and ahead of stressful times is by fueling it with nutrients. Foods high in vitamin D and B12 play an important role in regulating mood and supporting the nervous system.
3. Soothe Digestive Stress with Bitter Foods and Herbs
Stress can manifest physically in many ways, and one common symptom is digestive discomfort. If you tend to feel tension in your stomach, incorporating bitter foods can help support digestion and ease tension in the gut. Bitter herbs can be taken as tinctures, added into broths, brewed into teas to encourage a calm stomach:
- Bitter greens and herbs: Dandelion greens, arugula, and mustard greens are some examples great additions to your meals and salads.
-Herbal teas: Brew bitter herbs like gentian root, milk thistle, dandelion root, cardamom, etc for their supportive digestive effects.
4. Disconnect to Reconnect
In times of heightened stress, it’s essential to take moments of respite from the constant stream of information, especially if you find yourself overwhelmed by the news cycle. It’s easy to get caught up in the incessant noise, but staying grounded in your own voice, your own thoughts and beliefs is key. Spend time away from the headlines to:
- Meditate: Take a few minutes each day to take notice of your breath.
Pro Tip: A few big deep breaths right at bedtime just might change your life and deepen your connection to quality sleep.
-Mindful Moments: Set aside time to check in with yourself, whether through journaling, taking walks, or simply being still.
5. Find Community for Support
We are all feeling the weight of this moment in different ways. Whether you’re feeling anxious, exhausted, or uncertain, remember that community** is one of the best ways to navigate tough times. Lean on people who are experiencing similar emotions, share your thoughts, and listen to others. We are all in this together, and there’s strength in solidarity.
Remember, you deserve thoughtful and proactive care—take time to nourish your body, mind, and spirit.
Ground as you need to, take it one step at a time, and lean on the tools and people that bring you peace. You’ve got this.
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Always consult your healthcare provider before trying herbal remedies. This is solely for educational purposes.