Lion's Mane Archives - StonehengeHealth.com

October 12, 2024

This Mushroom Broth Recipe is Perfect for Fall and Your Brain Health

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 Mushrooms delivers 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.

July 23, 2024July 23, 2024

Your Guide to ‘Sharpening the Saw’ and Enhancing Cognitive Renewal

I have a bit of guilty pleasure…

I’ve always enjoyed reading self-improvement books; I’ve probably read dozens of them over the years.

Do I implement all of the things in the pages of these books? Definitely not, but if I can even get one useful tip out of a book, I consider that a win.

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey is an all-time classic.

It’s full of incredible tips to increase productivity (well, seven tips, to be exact), but I want to pull out my favorite tip and share it with you.

Hopefully, this will help you as much as it’s helped me over the years.

Habit #7, “Sharpen the Saw,” emphasizes the importance of continuous self-renewal in order to maintain productivity over the long term.

In other words, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”

Basically, if you’re using your saw all day for work, it’s going to get dull eventually. You need to do something else in order to keep it sharp.

The “saw” is your brain.

This habit is crucial for maintaining overall effectiveness and long-term success. The key aspect of this habit is mental renewal, which can be significantly enhanced with the right support.

The Importance of Mental Renewal

Two middle age students smiling happy painting clay sculpture at art school.

Mental renewal involves engaging in activities that stimulate and refresh the mind, such as reading, learning new skills, and exercising. It’s about keeping your cognitive abilities sharp, adaptable, and resilient by supplementing them with other types of activities.

Because without regular mental rejuvenation, our effectiveness diminishes.

In addition to sharpening your saw with physical and mental activities, you can also feed your brain by providing it with the nutrients it needs to thrive.

Dynamic Brain and Mental Renewal

Enter Dynamic Brain by Stonehenge Health, a supplement designed to optimize brain health and cognitive function.*

Dynamic Brain is formulated with a blend of 40 ingredients that support various aspects of cognitive health, making it an ideal companion in your quest to sharpen the saw.

Let’s take a closer look at some of these ingredients.

8 Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

Healthy lifestyle - people riding bicycles in city park

1. Choline

women with holding a cardboard egg box full of her eggs.

Choline is an essential nutrient critical for brain health, found in eggs, meat, and certain vegetables; it is particularly vital for older adults to maintain adequate levels through diet or supplements.

2. Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine, a crucial phospholipid in cell membranes, especially in the brain, is naturally present in foods like soybeans, white beans, egg yolks, and chicken liver.

3. Huperzia serrata

Huperzia serrata, a firmoss known for its cognitive-enhancing properties, contains huperzine A, which is used in traditional Asian medicine for its health benefits.

4. Bacopa monnieri

Two happy busy female employees working together using computer planning project.

Bacopa monnieri, a traditional Ayurvedic herb, enhances cognitive functions such as memory and concentration through its active components, primarily bacosides.

Celebrated for its efficacy in enhancing memory, attention, and the speed of cognitive processing, our new formula contains ten times the original serving of bacopa extract for an unprecedented cognitive boost, delivering a powerful supply of this vital brain nutrient.*

5. Vitamin B12

middle age woman at art classroom looking positive and happy

Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is essential for health. Methylcobalamin is naturally occurring, bioavailable, and is used in supplements for immediate utilization.

6. L-Theanine

L-Theanine, an amino acid found predominantly in green tea. This supplement is particularly favored by those looking to manage stress naturally without the use of stimulants. This extracted version doesn’t contain caffeine.

7. Lion’s Mane

Lion’s Mane, a functional mushroom, is celebrated for its potential cognitive health benefits and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.*

This remarkable mushroom supports cognitive function, reduces mild anxiety, helps with mood, and enhances overall brain health by stimulating the production of nerve growth factor (NGF).*

8. DHA

Top view Group of friends enjoy dinner party eating salmon

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), an omega-3 fatty acid essential for brain and retinal health, is found in fatty fish and is important for maintaining adequate levels, especially with aging.

These ingredients, meticulously combined in precise and proprietary amounts, create a synergy that your brain craves for peak performance.*

Integrating Dynamic Brain into Your Routine

Middle aged woman solving sudoku puzzle on sofa at home

To fully embrace Habit 7 and ensure you are sharpening the saw effectively, consider incorporating Dynamic Brain into your daily routine.

• Morning boost: Take Dynamic Brain in the morning to kickstart your cognitive functions and set a productive tone for the day.*

• Mindful breaks: Use the mental clarity provided by Dynamic Brain to engage in mindful activities like meditation or deep breathing exercises.*

• Learning sessions: Enhance your learning sessions with the memory and focus support from Dynamic Brain, making time doing crosswords or puzzles or wordle more effective.*

• Evening wind-down: Reflect on your day and plan for tomorrow with a clear and focused mind, thanks to the calming and soothing effects.*

Sharpening the saw through mental renewal is essential for long-term effectiveness and personal growth.

Dynamic Brain by Stonehenge Health provides the cognitive support needed to keep your mind sharp, focused, and ready to embrace continuous improvement.

By integrating this supplement into your daily routine, you can ensure that your mental saw is always finely honed, allowing you to achieve your fullest potential.

May 14, 2024May 17, 2024

New Dynamic Brain Formula Unveiled

The product development and science team at Stonehenge Health has been working on a breakthrough for our most popular product, and we’re finally ready to release it…

We are excited to announce the new and improved formula for Dynamic Brain.

Our advanced brain health formula with a remarkable combination of nootropics and nutrients has gotten even better.

Bottom line…

We’ve taken everything people love about our original formula, doubled down on what’s working, and added ingredients to enhance your experience with Dynamic Brain.

With our new formulation, we aim to help you:

• Elevate your mind*

• Support memory recall and focus*

• Boost alertness*

• Enhance learning*

• Maintain a sharper mind as you age*

Dynamic Brain, well known in the health and wellness community, has been a key to unlocking more cognitive potential in a world that demands peak mental performance.

This new blend isn’t just an update; it’s a comprehensive overhaul designed to significantly boost cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and mental clarity.*

Let’s dive into the science.

What’s New: 8 Key Ingredients Unveiled

Thinking concept Mature man and illustrated brain on grey background

Among the balanced and enhanced new blend of 40 potent nutrients specifically chosen for their brain health benefits, seven stand out for their unique properties:

1. Choline

fresh egg on frying pan standing on electric stove while cooking breakfast in the morning

2. Phosphatidylserine

White and red beans in rolled up sacks. Displayed at street market stall

Phosphatidylserine, a crucial phospholipid in cell membranes, especially in the brain, is naturally present in foods like soybeans, white beans, egg yolks, and chicken liver.

3. Huperzia serrata

Herbal medicine capsules and dried herb from nature

Huperzia serrata, a firmoss known for its cognitive-enhancing properties, contains huperzine A, which is used in traditional Asian medicine for its health benefits.

4. Bacopa monnieri

Fresh and dried bacopa herb plant, known from Ayurveda as Brahmi.

Bacopa monnieri, a traditional Ayurvedic herb, enhances cognitive functions such as memory and concentration through its active components, primarily bacosides.

Celebrated for its efficacy in enhancing memory, attention, and the speed of cognitive processing, our new formula contains ten times the original serving of bacopa extract for an unprecedented cognitive boost, delivering a powerful supply of this vital brain nutrient.*

5. Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is essential for health. Methylcobalamin is naturally occurring, bioavailable, and is used in supplements for immediate utilization.

6. L-Theanine

An old lady drinking Japanese tea in a Japanese-style room

7. Lion’s Mane

Lion’s Mane, a functional mushroom, is celebrated for its potential cognitive health benefits and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.*

This remarkable mushroom supports cognitive function, reduces mild anxiety, helps with mood, and enhances overall brain health by stimulating the production of nerve growth factor (NGF).*

These ingredients, meticulously combined in precise and proprietary amounts, create a synergy that your brain craves for peak performance.*

8. DHA

happy smiling senior woman reading book at home

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), an omega-3 fatty acid essential for brain and retinal health, is found in fatty fish and is important for maintaining adequate levels, especially with aging.

Dynamic Brain: Your Cognitive Catalyst

Dynamic Brain is not just a supplement; it’s a key to unlocking your brain’s full potential.

Designed for those seeking to maintain mental sharpness, support memory, and focus, as well as enhance concentration and alertness, Dynamic Brain is the companion you need in a world that demands peak mental performance.*

Embrace the opportunity to elevate your cognitive abilities and feel confident in your mind’s power.

Today, if you sign up for recurring shipments via our Subscribe & Save program, you can get up to 40% off your subscription.

Right now is the perfect moment to invest in your cognitive health.

We’re inspired daily by stories from satisfied customers who’ve regained their mental acuity, rediscovered their word-finding abilities, and improved their daily lives through Dynamic Brain.

Now, it’s your turn to embark on this journey of cognitive revitalization.

Secure your shipment of Dynamic Brain today, and take the first step towards a sharper, more vibrant you.*

Your path to a more focused and clear-minded existence starts now.

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?

March 14, 2024March 14, 2024

5 Advantages, Opportunities, and Joys That Only Time Can Provide

Society and the media tend to paint getting older in a negative light, often presenting it as a phase to be dreaded.

Having negative perceptions about the aging process is normal.

Getting old…

Not as young as I used to be…

If it were only 20 years ago…

However, the narrative doesn’t have to follow this grim outlook.

When viewed through a different lens, this time has the potential to be one of the most enriching parts of your life.

We recently had a memorable conversation with Rosalinda, a vibrant 63-year-old business owner and grandmother whose energy surpassed that of many people half her age.

Through an engaging conversation with this business owner, we realized that your 60s and beyond is not a decline into obscurity but rather a period brimming with unique opportunities, advantages, and joys.

Specifically, we count 5 benefits you can only get through getting older.

1. Confidence

Confidence is a trait that strengthens with time and experience.

As the years pass and you stack up achievements, you feel empowered to embrace new challenges without the fear of failure or the apprehension of judgment from others.

With more years comes a deeper understanding of your identity and capabilities. This self-awareness fosters comfort in your own skin and an appreciation for your distinct qualities, leading to both professionally and personally positive impacts.

2. Maturity

Woman practicing yoga and tai chi outdoors

Maturity encompasses more than just chronological age; it reflects a refined perspective on the world and your role within it.

Time often brings a more balanced temperament and an enhanced ability to navigate life’s highs and lows. There’s a tendency to prioritize the important over the trivial, adding a layer of serenity to your life experience.

3. Wisdom

Wisdom is a gift that comes with time, provided attention is paid to life’s lessons.

Each year imparts valuable insights about yourself, others, and the broader world, which in turn aids in making wiser choices and avoiding repetitive mistakes.

This accumulated knowledge also serves as a guiding light for younger generations, offering precious advice borne of experience.

4. Patience

Couple enjoying their time together while cooking

Patience grows with age.

Youth can be a time of impatience, with a desire for immediate gratification. Maturity, however, teaches the value of timing and fostering patience with oneself and with others, which can enhance relationships and reduce stress.

Acceptance of one’s evolving appearance also emerges, allowing for a greater appreciation of internal beauty traits like compassion, kindness, and empathy.

5. Gratitude

2 Friends hugging and thanking each other

Youth often takes for granted health and vitality.

As the years pass, the potential loss of faculties can lead to a heightened appreciation for them when they function well. This recognition fuels a profound sense of gratitude for life’s blessings, big or small.

Furthermore, a lifetime of experiences cultivates a sense of humor and resilience, invaluable qualities no wealth can buy. This results in a grounded, optimistic outlook filled with laughter, even amidst challenges.

Our encounter with Rosalinda

Contrary to the belief that working in your 60s and 70s equates to slowing down, staying engaged and active at this stage can actually enhance life’s enjoyment and vitality. However, keeping pace may require more energy and cognitive sharpness.

After dedicating four decades to her family and business, Rosalinda found herself drained of energy.

She felt overwhelmed by physical and mental exhaustion.

Her search for vitality led her to discover functional mushrooms.

Rosalinda shared this with us:

“Being a businesswoman with unique responsibilities, I found that incorporating Dynamic Mushrooms into my daily routine not only boosted my immune system but also enhanced my mental clarity, memory, and energy and allowed me to work stress-free.*”

With Dynamic Mushrooms™ as part of her regimen, Rosalinda experienced a remarkable turnaround. Her mental acuity was restored, and fatigue lost its grip on her life.*

Are you ready to live your success story?

Our proprietary blend includes the functional mushroom Lion’s Mane, which provides cognitive supporting benefits for healthy brain function and stress response to daily challenges.*

March 2, 2024March 2, 2024

From Rushed to Relaxed: Overcoming Rushing Woman’s Syndrome

Nature, friends and portrait of group of women enjoying bonding, quality time and relax in retirement together. Diversity, friendship and faces of happy females with smile, hugging and wellness

Calling all women…

Do you ever get the feeling that there’s just not enough time to get it all done?

You feel constantly rushed, even if there’s no reason to be.

If you’ve ever felt the pang of anxiety as you glance at your overflowing calendar, the guilt of squeezing in a quick meal between meetings, or the exhaustion that engulfs you the moment you sit down, you might be experiencing Rushing Woman’s Syndrome…

And you’re not alone.

What is Rushing Woman’s Syndrome?

enior elderly woman wearing apron, cleaning kitchen at home. Attractive mature old housekeeper cleaner feel tired and upset while wiping dining table for housekeeping housework or chores.

Rushing Woman’s Syndrome is a term coined by Dr. Libby Weaver in her book¹ to describe an emotional state commonly felt by modern women who are constantly under pressure and ‘rushing’ through their daily lives in an attempt to ‘get it all done.’

Trying to juggle multiple roles and responsibilities such as career, family, and personal health…

It’s not a medically recognized condition but rather a way to identify the physical and emotional stress that comes from leading a hectic lifestyle.

And it’s not just the external demands that weigh heavily on your shoulders…

It’s the internal expectation to excel in every aspect of your life, from being a high achiever at work to an impeccable caregiver at home, all while maintaining the poise of a well-kept lifestyle.

Left unchecked, you might even develop actual symptoms that begin to plague your everyday routine.

What are the symptoms of Rushing Woman’s Syndrome?

mature middle aged woman working on computer while sitting at the table at home

Brace yourself—these may hit a little too close to home…

• Constantly feeling rushed or in a hurry, even when there’s no need to be

• Hormonal imbalances, particularly with cortisol (the stress hormone)

• Difficulty in managing weight or body composition

• Increased stress levels and irritability

• Fatigue and difficulty sleeping

• Changes in menstrual cycle

• Digestive issues

While some are mental and others are physical, these symptoms can all bring you varying degrees of pain and suffering in their own way.

But why?

Listening to your body

Senior woman meditating as part of yoga training

If you’re experiencing symptoms of Rushing Woman’s Syndrome, your body is trying to tell you something.

Let’s break it down by the various systems in your body and how their malfunction can affect your health:

• Nervous system: An off-balance nervous system could be behind your weight gain and sleep disturbances.

• Adrenal glands: Adrenal glands produce hormones that help regulate your metabolism, immune system, blood pressure, and stress response. Adrenal exhaustion might be leaving you feeling simultaneously exhausted and overly alert.

• Reproductive system: The stresses you encounter every day could be impacting your menstrual regularity or reproductive health.

• Digestive system: Stress might be the underlying cause of your digestive discomfort, including bloating, food cravings, or an inconsistent appetite.

Now that you have an understanding of not only the symptoms, but also the underlying bodily systems that are driving them, let’s take a look at how to overcome Rushing Woman’s Syndrome.

You can do it! How to Overcome Rushing Women’s Syndrome

woman preparing healthy and delicious green smoothie in a modern kitchen

As you go through these suggestions, please understand that this is not yet another thing on your to-do list—these are simply tools you can use to address some of your symptoms.

There is no rush…

Prioritize your well-being

older friends happy baking in the kitchen

Put your own oxygen mask on first. It sounds simple, but prioritizing your mental, physical, and emotional health is the foundation of overcoming the relentless pace of life.

Prioritizing your well-being means setting aside time for regular check-ups, ensuring you get nutritious meals, and getting enough sleep.

One of the most empowering words in your vocabulary can be “no.”

Setting boundaries and recognizing that you can’t be everything to everyone is essential. Saying no to additional responsibilities can mean saying yes to your health, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones.

Incorporate mindfulness practices

household and people concept - senior woman drinking coffee or tea and resting after home cleaning

Mindfulness and meditation can be powerful tools for managing stress and anxiety. Even a few minutes a day can help calm your mind, reduce stress, and improve your focus. Find what works for you, whether through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few deep breaths.

It’s important to schedule time for yourself—time that’s not allocated to any tasks or responsibilities. Use this time to indulge in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether that’s reading a book, taking a long bath, or walking in nature.

Embrace imperfection

Senior Woman Relaxing In Hammock With Book

Perfection is an illusion that contributes significantly to our stress. Embrace the beauty of imperfection in both yourself and the world around you. Recognize that it’s okay not to have a perfectly clean house or a flawlessly executed project every time.

Nurture your passions

Elderly woman is painting in her home. Retirement hobby.

Invest time in activities that fulfill you outside of your work and family responsibilities. Whether painting, gardening, or playing an instrument, engaging in hobbies can provide a much-needed outlet for creativity and stress relief. Physical activity is particularly crucial for your mental health.

Discover the magic of mushrooms

Certain functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane provide cognitive supporting benefits for healthy brain function and healthy stress response to daily challenges.*

Dynamic Mushrooms from Stonehenge Health is a carefully crafted blend of mushrooms designed to support healthy cognitive function, putting you in the right mental state to deal with your symptoms of Rushing Woman’s Syndrome.*

Sources:
1. amazon.com/Rushing-Womans-Syndrome-Never-Ending-Do/dp/1781808163

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.
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