Adaptogens Archives - StonehengeHealth.com

May 31, 2024May 31, 2024

Breaking Free from Multitasking With a Healthier Approach to Productivity

A cheerful, busy mature Asian female tailor or online clothes shop seller is multitasking, talking on the phone with her customer while working on her computer in her atelier studio.

In today’s fast-paced world, multitasking is a societal norm.

It’s often listed as a desirable skill in job descriptions and is commonly thought of as a positive trait. We almost yearn to juggle multiple tasks at once, believing it will make us more productive.

And I admit it; as a Mom and full-time researcher and writer, I am a frequent multitasker.

But is multitasking really beneficial, or is it doing more harm than good?

To answer that you have to dig into the science of the human brain.

The Science of Multitasking

From a scientific standpoint, multitasking isn’t quite what it seems.

The human brain is not designed to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. Instead, what we refer to as multitasking is actually “task switching.”

This is when the brain rapidly shifts its focus from one task to another. According to a study from the University of Southern California, this constant switching can lead to several inefficiencies. The study indicates that multitasking causes us to make more mistakes, retain less information, and also changes the way our brains work.¹

When we switch tasks, our brain must reconfigure itself to the new task’s rules and parameters. This process consumes cognitive resources and time, making each switch less efficient and increasing the likelihood of errors.

As a result, the quality of work often declines.

The Downsides of Multitasking on Your Health

Multitasking Concept. Overworked Businessman Sitting At Laptop Overloaded With Work

But apart from the reduced quality of work, there are potentially some serious mental health concerns associated with constant multitasking.

Increased Stress

middle-aged woman sleeping leaned on soft cushions looks without energy

Multitasking can elevate stress levels. The brain’s constant shifting between tasks creates a sense of pressure and urgency, which can lead to chronic stress.

Over time, this stress can contribute to burnout and other health issues.

Multitasking can elevate stress levels. The brain’s constant shifting between tasks creates a sense of pressure and urgency, which can lead to chronic stress.

Over time, this stress can contribute to burnout and other health issues.

Cognitive Decline

There is evidence that multitasking may contribute to long-term cognitive decline. Research published in the journal PLOS ONE found that people who frequently multitask may experience reduced brain density in areas responsible for cognitive control and emotional regulation.²

Impulsiveness

online shopping. impulsive shopping concept

Multitasking can make us more impulsive. When we’re constantly switching tasks, we may become accustomed to the rapid pace and start making hasty decisions without fully considering the consequences.

This impulsiveness can negatively impact our professional and personal lives.

4 Benefits of Focusing on One Task

Middle-aged woman in headphones sit at table in kitchen look at laptop screen

While multitasking might seem like a way to get more done, focusing on one task at a time can be much more effective.

1. Improved Quality of Work

Happy mature woman planting flowers in the garden at home

When we dedicate our full attention to a single task, the quality of our work improves. We’re able to think more deeply, catch mistakes, and produce better outcomes.

2. Reduced Stress

Focusing on one task at a time can reduce stress. It allows us to work at a more manageable pace and complete tasks more efficiently, leading to a greater sense of accomplishment and well-being.

3. Enhanced Cognitive Function

Focusing on one task can strengthen our cognitive abilities. Concentrated effort improves memory, problem-solving skills, and overall brain health.

4. Better Decision Making

Happy retired couple of clients buying new house

Single-tasking encourages thoughtful decision-making. It gives us the time to consider all aspects of a situation, leading to more balanced and well-informed choices.

Supercharge Your Ability to Single-Task with Dynamic Mushrooms

Incorporating single-tasking into your routine can transform your productivity and well-being.

To enhance this process, consider adding Dynamic Mushrooms to your daily regimen. Dynamic Mushrooms is a powerhouse blend of Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga, Maitake, and Shitake mushrooms. These adaptogenic mushrooms are meticulously extracted from concentrated fruiting bodies, providing the highest quality and most potent ingredients.

Supports Mental Clarity*

woman standing happily with arms crossed

Dynamic Mushrooms supports mental clarity, allowing you to focus more effectively on individual tasks.* With sharpened thinking, you can delve deeper into your work and produce higher-quality results.*

Reduces Stress*

The adaptogenic properties of these mushrooms help your body better adapt to stressful situations, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.* This makes it easier to manage your workload without feeling overwhelmed.*

Enhances Cognitive Function*

The blend of mushrooms in Dynamic Mushrooms supports cognitive function, helping to maintain brain health and improve mental performance.* This is especially beneficial when concentrating on complex tasks.

While multitasking may seem like a necessity in our busy lives, it often leads to reduced productivity, increased stress, and cognitive decline.

By embracing the power of single-tasking, you can improve the quality of your work, reduce stress, and make better decisions. Dynamic Mushrooms can support this shift, enhancing your mental clarity and overall well-being.*

Take the first step towards a more focused and fulfilling life with Dynamic Mushrooms, and experience the benefits of truly embracing each moment.*

Sources:
1. appliedpsychologydegree.usc.edu/blog/benefits-of-multitasking
2. sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/09/140924144949.htm

May 30, 2024May 30, 2024

How & When Should I Take My Supplements?

We often get asked what the optimal time is to take a supplement. You may have heard that you should take them with food on an empty stomach, or… take them before breakfast, or… take them before you go to sleep, so which is it?

The answers depend on the ingredients, what you want to accomplish, and, most importantly, what you want to avoid—like insomnia or digestive discomfort.

So, let’s break it down by product type to discover when and why timing matters in achieving the full benefits you’re looking for in your daily supplement routines.

Water-Soluble Vitamins

The human body does not naturally store water-soluble vitamins for later use, so you need to replenish them daily through your diet or supplements.

Two of the most well-known water-soluble vitamins are B complex and C vitamins.

In general, it’s safe to take any B vitamins or a B-complex vitamin at any time of the day.

But because B vitamins are known to boost your energy, taking them first thing in the morning lets you take advantage of their energy-boosting properties.

Recent research also shows that B Vitamins may interfere with sleep and even cause vivid dreams—another reason to take them earlier in the day.¹

Vitamin C naturally occurs in citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, and lemons. No matter how you get your Vitamin C—fruit or supplements—the benefits are enormous. It’s an essential nutrient that not only supports a healthy immune system but also collagen synthesis and brain health.

However, a study on 16,000 Americans showed that one in three of us is still Vitamin C deficient.²

Note: Because even a moderate Vitamin C deficiency can lead to dry skin, a reduction in collagen synthesis, and an impaired immune system, consider taking a high-quality daily supplement like Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Liposomal Vitamin C.

This formula contains a potent daily dose of 1,500 mg of fat-soluble and highly bioavailable Vitamin C. Dynamic Liposomal Vitamin C efficiently replenishes your daily needs.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Senior woman eating breakfast with a smile. Dynamic Brain

Some examples of fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Fat-soluble vitamins dissolve in oil, so they should generally be taken alongside food.

Studies show that taking fat-soluble vitamins immediately following a meal may boost the amount of vitamins your body absorbs.³

This means that it doesn’t particularly matter what time you take them as long as you take them with food.

Probiotics

Your gut microbiome is a vast collection of beneficial and harmful bacteria that directly affect your digestive health, brain function, and immunity.

Probiotics can help restore your gut with helpful bacteria that balance your gut microbiome. Getting (and keeping) your gut in balance is key to feeling your best.

Your digestive system becomes less active while you sleep; therefore, the best time to take probiotic supplements like Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Biotics is at bedtime. This way, the probiotics have the chance to hang out longer in your intestines and colonize.

Note: Dynamic Biotics contains 55 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) of lactobacillus and bifidobacterium probiotic strains. It also includes prebiotics to help nourish the good bacteria and give them the food they need to have the best chance to colonize and thrive in your gut.*

Minerals

Senior woman in bathrobe taking vitamin pills in kitchen.

It’s best to take minerals such as zinc and magnesium before bedtime.

Some minerals produce a calming effect that may help you fall asleep more quickly and sleep more deeply.⁴

If you’ve been prescribed a mineral supplement twice a day, the best times to take it are morning and evening.

Omega-3’s

Omega-3 supplements offer a wide range of health benefits, from a better mood to better mobility.*

Many experts recommend taking essential fatty acids with a meal, ideally dinner. Omega-3 is more likely to be tolerated by your body when taken with food, and the enzymes released during digestion help facilitate absorption.⁵

An emulsified form of krill oil is best, as it can further help with absorption.*

Fish oil is a popular omega-3 supplement that has a reputation for causing indigestion and nausea. Because fish oil is hard to digest, take fish oil in divided doses if you can, not before exercise or bedtime. Physical activity or moving your body into a prone position may cause unpleasant fishy-tasting reflux, sometimes referred to as “fish burps.”

Note: Many people have turned to krill oil due to its increased bioavailability compared to fish oil. Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Krill Oil contains 1,600 mg of K•REAL® Pure Antarctic Krill Oil (with EPA and DHA), ensuring that your body gets enough to thrive.*

Antioxidants

Antioxidants protect your cells from free radical damage caused by exposure to pollution, and chemicals and as a byproduct of an unhealthy lifestyle.*

Antioxidant supplements like Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Turmeric should be taken with a meal to help maximize absorption and minimize stomach upset. If you’re taking a twice-a-day dosage, you can take one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Adaptogens

Adaptogens—like the ones found in some functional mushrooms—help you adapt to all forms of stress, such as physical exertion, noise, fatigue, and emotional strain.*

They simultaneously help you feel less anxious and more energized while improving your sense of well-being.* ⁶

Given their wide range of wellness benefits, adaptogens have exploded in popularity in the last few years.

Given that some adaptogens stimulate while others are more relaxing, timing an adaptogen depends on what you want to accomplish. Take energizing adaptogens like Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps in the morning or during the day.

Note: If you want to stay calm during a stressful workday, take a multi-adaptogen formula like Stonehenge Health Dynamic Mushrooms.* Lion’s Mane and Maitake will give you focus and energy, while the Reishi will help you stay calm and balanced.*

Multi-Ingredient Supplements

Nutritional supplements that address specific health goals—such as boosting immunity to help stave off infection or improving cognitive function—often contain various ingredients that don’t fit entirely into one category.

Take Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Brain—It’s a combination of 40 ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, and neuro-nutrients, that support your brain’s health while also helping to improve your memory and focus.*

For multi-ingredient supplements like this, follow the instructions on the bottle.

If it is a multi-pill dosage, split the number of pills between morning and evening. Do not take Dynamic Brain at night. It contains a high level of B-complex vitamins known to boost energy. Therefore, the best time of day to take Dynamic Brain is first thing in the morning.

One last thing: Not all supplements on the market are monitored for quality, purity, or safety like prescription drugs. You should always select supplements made by a reputable source that is third-party tested and manufactured in cGMP-certified facilities in the United States, like all the high-quality products made by Stonehenge Health.

No matter how you’re looking to benefit from taking supplements, consistent daily use is the key to getting the results you’re looking for. Finding the time of day that works best for your needs and incorporating them as part of your routine is the ideal way to feel the maximum results and long-term benefits of any nutritional supplement you select.

Sources:
1. When Is the Best Time to Take Vitamins? | healthline.com/nutrition/best-time-to-take-vitamins#water-soluble-vitamins
2. Wallace TC, McBurney M, Fulgoni VL 3rd. Multivitamin/mineral supplement contribution to micronutrient intakes in the United States, 2007-2010. J Am Coll Nutr. 2014;33(2):94-102. Doi: 10.1080/07315724.2013.846806. PMID: 24724766. | pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24724766/
3. Albahrani, Ali A, and Ronda F Greaves. “Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Clinical Indications and Current Challenges for Chromatographic Measurement.” The Clinical biochemist. Reviews vol. 37,1 (2016): 27-47. | ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4810759/
4. Abbasi, Behnood et al. “The effect of magnesium supplementation on primary insomnia in elderly: A double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.” Journal of research in medical sciences : the official journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences vol. 17,12 (2012): 1161-9. | ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4810759/
5. Maki KC, Dicklin MR. Strategies to improve bioavailability of omega-3 fatty acids from ethyl ester concentrates. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2019 Mar;22(2):116-123. doi: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000000537. PMID: 30550388. | pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30550388/
6. What are Adaptogens & Types | my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/22361-adaptogens
7. Is It Better to Take Vitamins in the Morning or Night? | medicinenet.com/vitamins_in_the_morning_or_in_the_night/article.htm

May 1, 2024May 1, 2024

20-Minute Savory Mushroom Pâté Recipe: The Star Appetizer of Your Next BBQ

Family having lunch at summer garden party.

“Can you bring an appetizer?”

If you have a dinner party or a barbecue coming up, we have a dish you can bring that will seriously ‘wow’ your friends.

If you bring chips and salsa, your friends will be grateful, and it’ll probably get eaten.

If you bring this mushroom pâté, there will be a line at the appetizer table, and you will become a legend.

This is a vegetarian version of the classic pâté and makes for a rich and flavorful spread that’s perfect for appetizers or as part of a sophisticated meal.

It’s not only delicious, but the mushrooms in this recipe contain several health benefits your friends and family will appreciate.

Mushrooms like shitake, portobello, and cremini are low in calories, making them a great weight management choice.

They also provide valuable nutrients such as B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism and brain health, and minerals like selenium, which is important for thyroid function and has antioxidant properties.

Additionally, mushrooms labeled “fortified” have been exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet light, which provides them with vitamin D—a crucial nutrient for bone health and immune function.

You can feel confident knowing this recipe is not only tasty but also supports a healthy, balanced diet with a range of nutrients.

This pâté is an elegant and flavorful choice that can impress as a part of a charcuterie board or a gourmet appetizer. Its rich, umami-packed flavor profile makes it a delightful alternative to meat-based pâtés.

And best of all…

It’s easy to make!

Mushroom Pâté

Ingredients:

• 1 pound mixed mushrooms (shiitake, portobello, cremini), finely chopped

• 1 shallot, minced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (consider subbing 3 tsp of olive oil for a healthy alternative)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/4 cup dry sherry or white wine

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/3 cup low-fat cream cheese, softened (consider subbing ⅓ cup silken tofu for a healthy alternative)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Toasted bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions:

1. Cook the mushrooms: Heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the shallot and garlic, and sauté until soft and translucent. Add the mushrooms and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and all their liquid has evaporated, stirring occasionally.

2. Deglaze and season: Add the dry sherry or white wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cook until most of the liquid has evaporated. Stir in the thyme and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Blend the pâté: Transfer the mushroom mixture to a food processor. Add the parsley, Dijon mustard, and cream cheese. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Chill: Transfer the pâté to a serving bowl or mold. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the pâté to firm up.

5. Serve: Serve the mushroom pâté chilled with toasted bread, crackers, or a selection of vegetable sticks for dipping.

Nutritional Info:

Servings: Approximately 10

• Serving size: 2-3 tablespoons

• Calories per serving: 80 kcal

• Fat per serving: 7 grams

• Protein per serving: 2 grams

• Carbohydrates per serving: 3 grams

• Sugars per serving: 1 gram

• Fiber per serving: .5 gram

This unique recipe is guaranteed to impress your friends. Be prepared for a lot of questions about the recipe, and feel free to share this link.

Or keep it a secret; it’s up to you.

Functional Mushrooms for Healthy Stress Response

Do parties, BBQs, or other social gatherings ever give you anxiety?

Party anxiety is pretty common, but it can turn what’s supposed to be a pleasant time among family and friends into something that you dread.

Dynamic Mushrooms from Stonehenge Health harnesses the natural power of adaptogenic mushrooms to address stress and anxiety.*

Adaptogenic mushrooms are types of fungi known for their ability to help the body adapt to and resist different physical and mental stressors. In other words, they can help your body cope with stress and anxiety, which is why they’re a key ingredient in Dynamic Mushrooms. It’s important to note that these are not the mushrooms you’ll find in this pâté or at the supermarket.

This blend contains four renowned types of mushrooms—Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Maitake, and Reishi—each known for their health-promoting properties.*

Lion’s Mane is celebrated for its potential to support brain health and cognitive function.* This can be particularly beneficial for managing stress, as it may help improve focus and mental clarity, making it easier to navigate stressful situations.*

Reishi is widely used in traditional medicine for its calming properties and is believed to help enhance sleep quality and reduce anxiety, providing a more relaxed state of mind.*

But there’s more.

Chaga and Maitake also help your body and mind better adapt to stressful situations, so you feel zen-like calmness.*

Chaga is known for its antioxidant properties, which can combat oxidative stress—a physiological stressor.*

Maitake has been noted for its potential to support overall immunity, which can be compromised by chronic stress and anxiety.*

By combining these powerful mushrooms, Dynamic Mushrooms aims to offer a natural, holistic approach to managing stress and promoting a sense of well-being, helping users maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle amidst their daily challenges. Why not give it a try and see how it can help you?

January 27, 2024January 27, 2024

Feeling Sick? Get Some Sleep

Unhappy exhausted mature woman with closed eyes lying in bed

When you’re feeling unwell, your body instinctively knows what to do – sleep.

This isn’t a mere whim but a vital part of your body’s defense strategy. Sleep is a powerful tool for energy conservation, allowing your body to focus its resources on fighting off the illness. But it’s more than just an energy saver; sleep also facilitates cellular repair and regeneration, playing a pivotal role in your body’s healing process.

Interestingly, sleep also bolsters your fever response, a key player in enhancing your immune system’s effectiveness.

As you sleep, your immune activities heighten significantly, contributing to your increased need for sleep when you’re sick. Your body’s working overtime to heal and safeguard itself, and this process is most efficient during restful periods.

Therefore, when symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or headaches emerge, prioritizing sleep becomes essential in your recovery journey.

Understanding the Immune System

Doctor shows health protection symbol on blurred background.

The immune system, our body’s built-in shield, is a sophisticated network of cells, tissues, and organs that collaborate to protect us from harmful pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites. It’s composed of two main subsystems: the innate (non-specific) immune system and the adaptive (specific) immune system, both of which work together to fend off infections and illnesses.¹

Role of Sleep in Immune Function

During sleep, your body synthesizes and releases cytokines, proteins that are crucial in managing infection and inflammation, thus initiating an immune response.² When deprived of sleep, the production of these protective cytokines can decrease. Additionally, the count of antibodies and cells that fight infections also reduces during periods of inadequate sleep.

Sleep and Immune Memory

Sleep also influences the adaptive immune system, which utilizes “immune memory” to combat previously faced pathogens effectively.³ Studies have shown that getting a good night’s sleep after receiving a vaccine can boost the immune system’s memory response. Conversely, a lack of sleep can impair the body’s ability to remember and respond to threats, leaving it more vulnerable.⁴

Sleep Deprivation and Increased Susceptibility to Illness

Middle-aged 50s sick frozen woman seated on sofa in living room covered with warm plaid sneezing holding paper napkin blow out runny nose feels unhealthy, seasonal cold, weakened immune system concept

Research has consistently shown a link between lack of sleep and increased susceptibility to illnesses.⁵ For instance, one study found that individuals who slept less than seven hours per night were almost three times more likely to catch a cold than those who slept for eight hours or more. Persistent lack of sleep can precipitate severe health conditions such as weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, and potentially, premature death.⁶

The Reciprocal Relationship Between Sleep and Immune Response

Senior woman enjoying autumn colors at sunset

The relationship between sleep and immunity is reciprocal. While quality sleep fortifies your immune system, your immune system, in turn, helps regulate your sleep patterns. This is mainly due to the cytokines released during an immune response that also promote sleep.

This intricate interplay underscores that sleep is essential in maintaining a robust immune response. So the next time you contemplate skipping sleep, remember that it’s not just your energy levels at stake, but your body’s natural defenses too.

In the broader health perspective, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and quality sleep make up the trifecta of wellness. Therefore, it’s important to give each component its due attention. Remember, a well-rested you is a healthier you!

How to relax and support your immune system at the same time…

An emerging trend in the realm of relaxation is the use of adaptogens. These natural substances aid in building resilience to the physical and mental impacts of stress to your body, fostering a greater sense of tranquility.^7-8 Among the extensively studied adaptogens, functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Maitake, and Reishi have gained attention.

Functional mushrooms also support your immune system.* Stonehenge Health has formulated Dynamic Mushrooms by expertly combining Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Maitake, Reishi, and Shiitake mushrooms. Incorporating Dynamic Mushrooms into a holistic lifestyle can help you maintain that cool and collected vibe needed to thrive.*

Sources:
1. Asif N, Iqbal R, Nazir CF. Human immune system during sleep. Am J Clin Exp Immunol. 2017 Dec 20;6(6):92-96.
2. Brain basics: Understanding sleep. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/brain_basics/understanding_sleep.htm.
3. Besedovsky L, Lange T, Born J. Sleep and immune function. Pflugers Arch. 2012 Jan;463(1):121-37.
4. Zimmermann, P., & Curtis, N. (2019). Clinical Microbiology Reviews, 32(2), e00084-18.
5. Cirelli C. Definition and consequences of sleep deprivation. http://www.uptodate.com/home.
6. Spiegel, K., Tasali, E., Leproult, R., & Van Cauter, E. (2009). Effects of poor and short sleep on glucose metabolism and obesity risk. Nature reviews. Endocrinology, 5(5), 253–261.
7. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2017 Aug;1401(1):49-64.
8. Liao LY et al. Chin Med. 2018 Nov 16;13:57.

July 24, 2023July 26, 2023

Rest Easy: 8 Tips for Getting the Best Sleep While Traveling

Traveling can be exciting and rewarding but comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest challenges? Getting a good night’s sleep, especially when you’re staying with family and friends.

Whether on a business trip, exploring new places, or visiting loved ones, getting quality sleep is crucial for maintaining energy, focus, and your overall well-being. That’s where this blog comes in. Keep reading to discover valuable tips and strategies to help you get the best sleep possible while traveling.

From creating the perfect sleep environment to establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, we’ll reveal the secrets to a peaceful night’s sleep that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on your travel adventures. Say goodbye to sleepless nights and hello to restful slumber.

Choose Accommodations Wisely

Let’s face it, saying goodbye to your comfy bed and hello to an uncomfortable couch, guest room, or a dreaded pull-out can be tricky. If you’re lucky, you might get a comfortable mattress and your room, but more often than not, you’ll find yourself tossing and turning all night.

The only way to have a fantastic travel experience is by choosing the perfect place to stay for a restful night’s sleep. Instead of bunking in someone’s home, opt for accommodations focusing on comfort, peace, and convenience. Look for features like blackout curtains, cozy beds, and soundproofing that will help ensure a good night’s rest.

If you can’t get to sleep, consider booking a room away from busy areas or using white noise machines or earplugs to drown out any disturbances. By prioritizing your rest, you’ll have a much more enjoyable time during your travels.

Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment

Transform your temporary sleeping space into a haven of relaxation by paying attention to the sleep environment. Keep the room cool, dark, and quiet. Use an eye mask to block out light, earplugs, or a noise machine to minimize external noise. If the room lacks proper temperature control, adjust it using the thermostat, fan, or portable heater, depending on your preferences.

Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help regulate your internal clock, so it’s easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even when traveling across time zones. This will help your body adjust more smoothly and minimize the effects of jet lag.

Establish a Bedtime Routine

A bedtime routine signals your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Adapt your routine to your travel circumstances. Incorporate activities such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, practicing relaxation techniques, or listening to calming music. Avoid engaging in stimulating activities or using electronic devices emitting blue light, as it can interfere with sleep.

Prioritize Comfortable Sleepwear and Bedding

Pack comfortable sleepwear and bring your own pillow if possible. Familiar bedding and sleepwear can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, promoting better sleep. Opt for breathable fabrics that suit the climate, ensuring you don’t overheat or feel too cold at night.

Manage Stress and Relax Before Bed

Traveling can sometimes be stressful, affecting your ability to relax and fall asleep. Prioritize stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle stretching before bed. Consider using relaxation apps or guided sleep meditation recordings to help calm your mind and prepare for restful sleep.

Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Intake

Be aware of your caffeine and alcohol consumption, as both can disrupt your sleep patterns. Limit caffeine in the afternoon and evening, as its stimulating effects can make it difficult to fall asleep. While alcohol may initially make you drowsy, it can disrupt the quality of your sleep, causing disturbances and reducing the restorative aspects of rest.

Stay Active and Get Natural Light

To enhance the quality of your sleep at night, staying active and seeking natural light during the day can be highly beneficial. Regular physical activity helps tire your body and promotes better sleep patterns. Engage in activities like walking, jogging, or cycling to stimulate your body and mind.

Additionally, exposure to natural light is crucial in regulating your internal body clock, known as the circadian rhythm. Spend time outdoors to absorb sunlight, especially in the morning, which helps set your sleep-wake cycle. Natural light exposure boosts serotonin production, a hormone that promotes relaxation and melatonin production for better sleep quality.

So, prioritize staying active and basking in natural light throughout the day to enjoy more restful nights and wake up refreshed and rejuvenated each morning.

Supplementing Your Relaxation

An emerging trend in the realm of relaxation is the use of adaptogens. These natural substances aid in building resilience to the physical and mental impacts of stress, fostering a greater sense of tranquility.^(1-2)Among the extensively studied adaptogens, functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Maitake, and Reishi have gained attention.

Stonehenge Health® has formulated Dynamic Mushrooms™ by expertly combining Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Maitake, Reishi, and Shiitake mushrooms. Incorporating Dynamic Mushrooms™ into a holistic lifestyle can enhance your ability to adapt to physical and mental stressors while bolstering brain function, supporting the immune system, and naturally boosting energy levels.*

Sources:
1. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2017 Aug;1401(1):49-64.
2. Liao LY et al. Chin Med. 2018 Nov 16;13:57.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.