We talked about how summer can be a busy and action packed season which can leave us feeling pretty stressed and burnt out. Can you relate?
Nothing like sleeping through your alarm clock or needing that cup of coffee straight away in the morning. Heck I can feel that (minus the coffee and bring on the chai tea). This summer has been a very busy one for myself too and I am looking forward to re balancing and prioritizing my life a bit more in the fall ?
So, last week we looked at some easy ways to de-stress and unwind. If you have NOT read that blog, give it a look 16 ways to de-stress and unwind this fall. Now let’s dive into how you can get recharged and rejuvenated by trying some of these 9 energizing foods, herbs and spices!
Check em out!
9 Energizing Foods, Herbs & Spices:
1. Raw Cacao – Cacao (the unrefined version of cocoa) is super high in antioxidants, Magnesium, Iron, Chromium, Manganese and Zinc. Cacao has high amounts of Tryptophan which is an important mood enhancing nutrient along with serotonin which helps us to create our body’s stress defense.
2. Garlic – Not only does it support our immune system, but research shows that garlic can improve blood sugar regulation and energy balance.
3. Maca – Commonly when we are stressed or burnt out, our adrenal glands are needing some support. Enter Maca! This root often comes in powder form. It originates from the Peruvian Andes of South America and is an adaptogen which means it has the ability to balance and stabilize the body’s systems and helps the body to “adapt” to stressful circumstances (not too shabby for a root!). Maca has been known to help with several conditions such as anemia, chronic fatigue, depression, thyroid issues, stress tension and even libido! Try throwing some Maca powder in a smoothie, tea and nut milks ?
4. Ginseng – This root plant which comes mainly from Asian cultures, has been used as an energy booster, rejuvenator and even a natural stimulant (watch your intake! Speak to a natural health provider. People who are pregnant or have high blood pressure should not consume). Siberian ginseng may not be as stimulating as some types of ginseng, and it may actually be better for balancing stress.
5. Gingko – This herb can boost energy levels and reduce stress. It has been shown to improve blood circulation and even helps to protect our nerve cells and therefore supports cognitive function (hello brain love).
6. Veggies – Make sure to up your vegetable intake (dark greens and bright coloured veggies especially). Vegetables are high in antioxidants and important vitamins and minerals which will support your overall health and energy levels!
7. Fruit – Fruit is chalked full of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber which supports our health ? Try to eat fruit that is lower in sugar in order to avoid blood sugar fluctuations during the day. A few lower sugar choices are raspberries, blueberries and cherries.
8. Grains – Whole grains are high in fiber and many minerals such as B vitamins. B Vitamins are very important to support our adrenal system which gets taxed when we are stressed. Try to choose high quality whole grains. (No white flour!) Whole grains such as rice, spelt, oats and quinoa are great choices. The fiber helps to keep blood sugar levels balanced throughout the day = balanced energy levels!
9. Get yo’ fats – Fats are essential for our health. Healthy fats such as omega 3 and 6 are vital for body cell health, cell elasticity, they help us to absorb our fat soluble vitamins and they can help support inflammation reduction within the body. Some good sources are nuts, seeds, avocados and cold water fish such as salmon.
A Recipe for YOU!
Maca Chocolate Banana Madness Smoothie
(these are flexible measurements, try what you like!)
– 1-2 Tsp Maca powder (add more if you like)
– 1 heaping TBSP Cacao powder
– dash of cinnamon
– dollop of almond butter to taste
– 1- 2 cups Almond milk or other nut milk
– 1 frozen banana
Blend and Enjoy!
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Looking forward to an energized fall,
