Fall is here, and it’s got us yearning for something earthy, warm, and comforting.
Today, we have a mushroom broth that’s perfect for a rainy day or even as an appetizer for a hearty meal.
Note that the mushrooms for this recipe are a bit harder to find than portobellos, so you may need to look up your specialty or health foods store. But trust us, it’s worth it!
We call it the Zen Brain Mushroom Broth.
Now, let’s get to the recipe!
Ingredients:
• 1/4 cup dried Lion’s Mane mushrooms (or fresh if available)
• 1/4 cup dried Reishi mushrooms (or fresh slices)
• 1/4 cup Chaga chunks (dried)
• 8 cups water
• 2 cloves garlic (smashed)
• 1” piece fresh ginger (sliced)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (helps extract nutrients from the mushrooms)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor
Instructions:
1. Prepare the mushrooms:
• If using dried mushrooms, soak them in hot water for 20–30 minutes to rehydrate.
• Once softened, chop them into smaller pieces to release more nutrients during cooking.
2. Simmer the broth:
• In a large pot, add the water, mushrooms (including the soaking liquid if using dried), garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
3. Strain the broth:
• After simmering, strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the mushrooms, garlic, and ginger. You’ll be left with a rich, flavorful mushroom broth.
4. Season to taste:
• Add salt, pepper, and any herbs you like. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can let the broth simmer longer.
Serve: Warm the broth in a mug or use it as a base for soups or other dishes.
Did you notice anything special about this recipe? OK, we’ll tell you…
Lion’s Mane, Reishi, and Chaga are all known as “functional mushrooms” for their benefits beyond flavor.
• Lion’s Mane: Supports focus and cognitive health
• Reishi: Supports relaxation and stress relief
• Chaga: Provides antioxidants that support brain function
In other words, these mushrooms are known for their ability to positively affect your cognitive function, your mood, and your stress response.
This savory broth is a great way to naturally integrate these mushrooms into your diet, and it not only tastes delicious but may give you a mental boost. Plus, it’s versatile—you can sip it throughout the day for a gentle focus lift or use it to enhance other meals!
What do you think—are you ready to give this broth recipe a try?
To take your cognitive and overall well-being to the next level, consider Dynamic Mushrooms from Stonehenge Health.*
While this Zen Brain Mushroom Broth is a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of functional mushrooms, Dynamic Mushroomsdelivers the power of Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga, and more in a simple daily capsule.
Each serving is scientifically formulated to promote cognitive processing speed and efficiency, support feelings of happiness and motivation, ease feelings of stress, immune health, and healthy digestion, giving you all the benefits of these powerful mushrooms without the need to source or prepare them.*
Try it today and experience the cognitive enhancement and calming effects these mushrooms can provide—anytime, anywhere.
If you’ve been reading magazines or seeing lots of ads for mushroom products, you might be wondering:
What’s all this talk about mushrooms? I thought they were just for pasta, salads, and pizza…
We’re not talking about those kinds of ‘shrooms—we’re talking about functional mushrooms.
They’re called “functional mushrooms” because they contain bioactive compounds believed to positively impact the body, from boosting the immune system to enhancing mental clarity and providing energy.*
• Rich in beta-glucans, so they support your immune system.*
• Nootropic, meaning they support memory and mental clarity.*
• Adaptogenic, which means they assist your body in adapting to daily stress, leading to improved mood and sleep quality.*
At Stonehenge Health, we have a unique blend of five functional mushrooms we call Dynamic Mushrooms.
With thousands of online reviews, our community has shared many stories about the results they’re getting with our functional mushroom blend.
In today’s article, we’ll pull a few recent testimonials and dive into the science behind the reported health benefits.
Let’s start with three of the top reported health benefits:
1. Increased concentration*
2. Reduced stress*
3. Less brain fog*
Let’s dive in.
1. Concentration
Short attention spans…
In our increasingly fast-paced world, you may feel like your attention span is getting shorter every year.
Maybe it’s getting harder to finish a book, pay attention to a conversation, or even watch a movie without looking at your phone…
If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. Concentration problems are a widespread concern, but you don’t have to let them negatively impact your life.
Studies on the Lion’s Mane mushroom have shown its potential to enhance cognitive functions, including concentration. One study indicated that its bioactive compounds could stimulate brain cell growth, improving mental focus and cognitive agility, which are key to maintaining concentration. 1
This is exactly why we’ve included Lion’s Mane in our Dynamic Mushrooms formulation. A full gram in a 10:1 extract of the mushroom’s fruiting body packs a potent punch of nootropics designed to help support cognitive function.*
These are the types of stories we hear from our customers every day:
“I noticed the difference in mental activity in the first few days.”* – Jeff
“The day after taking it, I do feel a lot sharper! I noticed it the very first day after taking it! I gave it a month before writing this review because I do randomly have good days sometimes, and I wanted to rule out coincidences. But I am convinced it is working for me!”* – Arlene
While many people turn to stimulants like caffeine to try and enhance their concentration, functional mushrooms may be able to give you the boost in focus you’re looking for without the crash.*
2. Stress
Have you ever watched a TV show with a character who is so laid-back and calm no matter the situation you can’t help but laugh when you see them?
It’s funny because everyone gets stressed out occasionally; nobody stays cool 100% of the time.
And while stress is never fun, it happens sometimes and that’s normal.
But if you find yourself constantly stressed or know somebody who is, it may indicate a larger problem.
The Reishi mushroom, known for its adaptogenic properties, can help balance the body’s stress responses.*
“Adaptogenic” refers to substances that help the body manage stress by normalizing physiological processes and promoting a balanced homeostasis.
Clinical evaluations suggest that Reishi can lower elevated stress levels, promoting a more relaxed state of mind.*2
Dynamic Mushrooms is packed with 100 mg of this incredible fungi, along with another 100 mg in a 4:1 extract of Maitake—also studied for its role in helping modulate the body’s stress response.*
Together, these two adaptogenic mushrooms can provide a buffer against the physical and psychological impacts of stress.*
“These are amazing! Best mushrooms I have tried on the market. Fruiting bodies helped a lot with cognitive, stress, fatigue, and focus. Felt the results on day 2, been taking for three months now. Subscribed for monthly deliveries. Well worth it.”* – Jessica
3. Brain fog
“Helps with brain fog and concentration.”* – Geno
Brain fog isn’t technically a medical condition but rather a term describing symptoms that can affect one’s thinking ability.
If you’ve ever had feelings of confusion, forgetfulness, lack of focus, mental clarity, and decreased concentration, then you know exactly what brain fog is.
It can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of sleep, stress, hormonal changes, diet, and medical conditions.
Hericium erinaceus (commonly known as Lion’s Mane mushroom) has been reported to have therapeutic activities related to the promotion of nerve and brain health.*3
By stimulating the production of nerve growth factor, Lion’s Mane can potentially clear mental clutter and enhance cognitive clarity, combatting brain fog symptoms.* This improvement in cognitive functioning is essential for mental clarity and effective thinking.*
Next Steps
Our customers use Dynamic Mushrooms to unlock the full power of their minds (among other health benefits).
The thousands of online reviews we’ve received continuously tell us this.
But what we want to know is:
What could you accomplish with increased mental energy and sharpness?
If you’re ready to find out, join the thousands of Dynamic Mushrooms fans and subscribe to unlock your full potential today.
November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor and appreciate caregivers, acknowledge their challenges, celebrate their triumphs, and emphasize the importance of self-care as caregivers.
Reflecting on my caregiving experience, I’m reminded of the invaluable lessons I’ve learned. My father’s journey was intertwined with mine, teaching me profound lessons about love, patience, and resilience. Each day presented a new challenge, but it also offered an opportunity for growth and understanding.
If you’re considering stepping into the shoes of a caregiver or already navigating this path, the expert advice and personal insights below may help guide you on your journey.
The Incredible Importance of Self-Care
Caring for my 87-year-old father shaped my perspective on caregiving. It’s important to highlight that my dad had dementia, a condition marked by memory loss and other cognitive impairments. This condition often led to sundowning episodes, where his symptoms worsened in the late afternoon and early evening, turning our days into a rollercoaster ride of emotional ups and downs that took a significant toll, both physically and emotionally.
A simple yet profound truth is that “you can’t pour from an empty cup.” I’ve come to appreciate this adage more and more as it underscores the vital importance of self-care. It reminds us that caring for yourself is as important as caring for your loved one. Another important truth is that you must remember to be first in your own life, even though it’s often easy to put your loved one’s needs before yours.
As you navigate or continue your caregiving journey, remember these truths. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and making time for activities you enjoy are essential ingredients in the self-care recipe.
And as you embark on or continue your caregiving journey, remember that you’re not alone. It’s a journey best traveled with a helping hand and a generous dose of self-care to ensure you and your loved one receive the care and attention you need and deserve.
Stay Connected, Isolation Isn’t the Answer
The responsibility of caring for a loved one may lead you to retreat from social interactions. However, isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression, making the caregiving journey even more challenging.
Remember, maintaining your social connections isn’t selfish; it’s a critical aspect of self-care. Keeping in touch with friends and maintaining a support network can provide emotional relief and a sense of normalcy.
Seek Support
Don’t hesitate to seek help from friends, family, or support groups. It’s crucial to understand that it’s not a journey to be undertaken alone. Sharing your experiences with others in similar situations can provide emotional relief and practical advice. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help.
Educating Yourself
Knowledge is power. The more you understand your loved one’s condition, the better you’ll be able to handle challenges. Attend workshops, webinars, or consult professionals to broaden your knowledge.
Set Boundaries
It’s crucial to establish personal boundaries to prevent burnout. This might mean scheduling regular breaks, delegating tasks, or setting aside time for relaxation and hobbies.
Know Your Limitations and Plan for the Future
As caregiving responsibilities often evolve, it becomes crucial to have a well-thought-out plan to address potential changes in your loved one’s health or living situation. This foresight can significantly alleviate stress and ensure the best care for your family member.
In my journey, there came a poignant moment when I realized that my father’s needs had exceeded my capacity. I can vividly recall the day when my father’s sundowning episode escalated to the point where he became combative, unsettling my children. It was at this turning point that I recognized the necessity of alternative care.
Since my father was a Veteran, I had proactively arranged financial support, anticipating the professional care he would eventually require. This foresight led us to choose an assisted living facility with a specialized memory care center. Not only did this decision ensure my father received the expert care he needed, but it also allowed me to concentrate on preserving my well-being and that of my family.
Planning and having the support systems in place proved to be a lifeline during this challenging phase of our caregiving journey.
Navigating Care for Elderly Parents with Limited Financial Resources
For many families, the decision to care for loved ones at home stems from financial necessity. Often, our parents lack the resources required for assisted living or specialized care facilities. In such circumstances, it becomes imperative to explore the available avenues of support.
The Veterans Administration (VA) is a significant source of assistance, extending support to eligible veterans and their spouses. Through programs like Aid and Attendance, the VA provides financial aid to help cover the costs associated with home care or assisted living, easing the financial burden.
Additionally, Medicare plays a role in supporting healthcare services; however, it’s equally essential to understand the coverage’s limitations and associated co-pays. To further broaden the scope, Medicaid, a joint federal and state program, offers healthcare coverage to low-income individuals, including seniors, bridging the gap for those with limited financial resources.
Drawing from personal experience, I emphasize the crucial nature of early planning and foresight. Establishing the necessary provisions for your parent’s future needs can be time-consuming, ranging from a few months to a year.
Seeking guidance from social workers and elder care specialists proves invaluable in navigating these intricate programs, ensuring that despite financial constraints, your elderly parent receives the care they need.
You Are Appreciated
If you’re considering becoming a caregiver, remember that while the journey is challenging, it’s also deeply rewarding. Your sacrifice won’t go unnoticed; you’re making a profound difference in someone’s life. If you’re already on this journey, your dedication is immensely appreciated.
Although some days may feel daunting, remember the joy and fulfillment of caregiving. You are not alone on this journey, and the rewards—though they may sometimes seem elusive—are truly priceless.
The Stress Factor
If you’re a caregiver, you’re likely dealing with your fair share of stress. Know that natural options may help your body better manage it more effectively.
Functional mushrooms like Reishi, Maitake, and Lion’s Mane have gained popularity as adaptogens, primarily due to their ability to support the body’s stress response system. They contain unique compounds, such as beta-glucans and polysaccharides, which have been shown to promote healthy immune function. Lion’s Mane boasts hericenones and erinacines, known for supporting cognitive function.
To make things even more convenient, you can get your daily dose of adaptogens through supplement blends, saving you the trouble of hunting down individual ingredients.
Stonehenge Health Dynamic Mushrooms brings together the benefits of the five most popular functional mushrooms – Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Chaga, Maitake, and Shiitake. These mushrooms, collectively recognized as adaptogenic, can help support your cognitive health, manage daily stress, improve sleep quality, and support your immune system. * This all-in-one approach makes it easy to include adaptogens into your routine.
* 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.
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.
