If you’re a modern-day adult, there’s a good chance that you’ve dealt with some stress in your life. It may even be safe to say that “some stress” is an understatement. It’s no secret that life can be anxiety-inducing these days whether you’re dealing with a demanding work environment, high-stress homelife, or just day-to-day issues like figuring out what to make for dinner, (it can be a tough decision)!
The irony is, small amounts of stress can be beneficial, but more isn’t always better as being overwhelmed with stress takes a major toll on the body which can lead to health issues which causes your stress to spiral even more. It’s stressful to even think about stress! Luckily, we have some good news for you. There are a lot of easy ways to manage your stress and live the calm focused life you’ve always strived for. In this article, we are discussing how to use CBD oil for maintaining that stress-free state of daily calm, as well as some other methods, so you can learn how to experience a more efficient, focused and relaxed lifestyle.
What’s the deal with stress?
The problem with stress is that it causes your body to release the stress hormone, cortisol in excess. Cortisol is a hormone made by the adrenal glands, and it is released when your body is on “high alert” or in fight-or-flight mode. This hormone might shut off other body functions that get in the way of fighting whatever stressor is standing in its way. Excessive amounts of cortisol can lead to poor immune function, obesity, abnormal blood sugar regulation, and many other unhealthy conditions. Stress is such an insidious negative regulator of our health that a wellness plan is not complete without stress mitigation techniques.
Here are some common side effects of stress:
- Headache
- Overeating or loss of appetite
- Restlessness
- Muscle tension
- Poor sleep
- Digestive problems
- Decreased motivation
- Brain fog
- Increased central body fat
Do some of these sound all too familiar? Don’t worry, there are some answers! Here are a few natural and simple ways that you can manage your stress.
How to use CBD to keep calm
CBD oil can be an effective way to promote relaxation and maintain a regular state of calm in your life. CBD oil is naturally derived from the hemp plant and works with the body’s endocannabinoid system, also known as ECS. The reactions that occur with the ECS when CBD is ingested work to maintain balance in the body. Research is rapidly evolving, but it is thought that the molecules in CBD bind to certain receptors in the ECS helping the body to respond to stress and changing external environments. CBD oil has been reported to help stave off some of the negative side effects of occasional stress, helping users in a number of ways.
CBD can improve stress-induced occasional sleeplessness
One common and debilitating side effect of stress is the inability to achieve restful sleep from time to time. Many people who suffer from occasional stress report waking up in the middle of the night and being unable to fall back asleep because their worrisome thoughts fill their minds. This lack of sleep can lead to a whole host of health issues and even just simple inconveniences such as brain fog and a difficulty with focus.
Full spectrum CBD oil contains additional properties such as cannabinoids and terpenes that complement each other inside of the body. These compounds work together to help relax the body and achieve optimal benefits from CBD. When certain cannabinoids bind to receptors in the body’s ECS it can help achieve a calmative effect, helping users sleep more soundly at night and wake up feeling recharged.
Relief of muscle tension
Stress can lead to muscle tension and soreness. Many people who suffer from poor stress management suffer from tensions in their back, shoulders, and jawline. Ingesting CBD oil as well as applying topical CBD products can help relax muscles and support healthy joints and muscles. Topical CBD allows for targeted joint and muscle support on specific areas of the body and can work in harmony with other CBD products to achieve a full effect.
Other ways to better deal with stress
If you combine your CBD regime with other stress relief methods (like regular exercise, for example), then you are well on your way to a more relaxed and healthy lifestyle. Here are a few more ways to relieve stress.
Exercise
Maintaining an exercise routine is a super effective way to help manage stress, and although it can be difficult to get started, once you feel the benefits, you’ll be motivated to keep going. If you currently never workout, that’s okay, you can start small with just a simple walk down the street. A light exercise routine can easily be fit into even the busiest of schedules. Start by setting the intention to get active for 15 minutes, then slowly increase your routine. Since working out causes your body to release endorphins, it can help boost the mood and increase feelings of calmness. Also, exercise can be used in the middle of a stressor. Try doing a few pushups, jumping jacks, or stretches next time you feel stressed out!
Meditation
Practicing meditation is another effective method to clear your head and calm your mind. Take a few minutes to close your eyes and just focus on your breath. Combining meditation with breathing techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing, alternate nostril breathing, or 4-7-8 breathing can provide a synergistic relaxing effect. A consistent meditation practice can have a whole host of positive health benefits including reduction in negative emotions, improved stress management, and increased patience. There are plenty of ways to incorporate a meditation practice into your routine such as taking some time to meditate before you fall asleep at night, or immediately upon waking. You can also meditate while walking, waiting in line, or driving.
Aromatherapy
Another great way to promote relaxation and reduce stress is through the use of aromatherapy. Calming scents like lavender, cedarwood, peppermint, and orange can have soothing effects on the body. Essential oils are a great way to practice aromatherapy for stress relief and the soothing aromas actually come from terpenes, (which are also a component of CBD oil)!
It’s a crazy world we’re living in these days and it’s absolutely vital to learn to manage stress and take care of your body. There are a lot of natural, effective ways to help with relaxation including CBD, exercise, meditation and aromatherapy. Having a handle on the effect that stress has on your body can ultimately help improve focus and energy levels, helping you live happily and function optimally.
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