Relaxation Drinks? Really?

As I was perusing the web this morning and stopped by the Drudge Report, I noticed a really interesting blurb that discussed the new “relaxation drinks” that are making their way to market.

So we load people up on “energy drinks” year after year and now we need to bring them down?  There are much safer, more effective, and longer-lasting ways to relax and beat stress.  Here’s just a short list I thought of right now!

1. Take a vacation – You don’t have to go far for a very relaxing, stress-relieving break.  Chances are you can find somewhere in your own state to kick back and let the relaxation begin!
2. Drink green tea – Green tea is high in antioxidants, helps maintain weight, improves cognition and on, and on, and on.  Green tea is also high in the amino acid, theanine, which is a precursor to the neurotransmitter GABA.  Guess what GABA does?  It is your calming, anti-anxiety, neurotransmitter.  Choose organic.  Unless you are extremely sensitive to caffeine, then the amount contained in green tea is no concern because the theanine acts as a natural buffer to the caffeine.
3. Breathe – When we get stressed our breaths become more shallow and many times we end up holding our breath.  Next time you get worked up and need to relax try taking 10 deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth.
4. Sleep Right – You need sleep.  Poor sleep, inadequate sleep duration, and insomnia all lead to excess inflammation.  Inflammation causes stress.  Want to be more relaxed?  Sleep better.
5. Run Up Stairs – A quick sprint up the stairs can not only be stimulating (for those with afternoon fatigue) but can also be relaxing at the same time.  If you find yourself agitated, stuck on a project or upset…take a quick sprint and see how you feel.
6. Count Your Blessings – When you are feeling overwhelmed and need to relax one great tip is to take a moment to count your blessings.  Begin to reflect on all the things that are going right and you’ll notice your heart rate start to quiet down in just a few minutes.  A sense of gratitude has been shown to make you happier, reduce your stress, relax you and make you live longer.

So there you have it.  I am sure there are about ten thousand more ways to relax and chill out.  I’d love to hear what you do for relaxation.  Leave a comment below or comment on the video post on our Facebook Page and share what works for you!

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