February 2024 — Page 2 of 4 — Eating Enlightenment

Are you feeling stressed or burnt out? If yes, you must find the best ways to naturally relax. We’ve got this topic covered for your self-guidance guidance to attain better health.The fast-paced lifestyle prevalent in modern society has contributed to an increased prevalence of burnout among people. The demands of work, family, and daily life can often leave us feeling tense and overwhelmed. While there are various methods to alleviate stress, one often overlooked approach is through the foods we eat. The natural way of relaxation is often considered superior to other methods because it offers holistic benefits for both body and mind without relying on artificial substances or interventions. In this article, we’ll explore the foods that can help you naturally relax your body and mind. Foods That Naturally Relax The Body And Mind Certain foods have nutrients and compounds that promote relaxation and lower stress levels. Check them out below. 1. Dark Chocolate Dark chocolate can do more than satisfying your sweet tooth. It contains flavonoids, which have been shown to possess calming effects on the brain by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation. Indulge in a small piece of dark chocolate (70% cocoa content or higher) as a satisfying and mood-boosting treat. Let it melt slowly in your mouth to savor its rich flavor and smooth texture fully. Incorporate chopped dark chocolate into your favorite recipes, such as cookies, brownies, muffins, or pancakes, for a decadent and indulgent twist. You can also melt and drizzle it over fruit, yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream for added sweetness and flavor. Dark chocolate can also make healthy cannabis edibles, which contain compounds called cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to help your body and mind relax and reduce stress. 2. Green Leafy Vegetables Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are abundant in magnesium, a mineral known for its ability to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Magnesium helps regulate neurotransmitters that influence mood and stress response. Adding a serving of fresh leafy greens to your daily meals can help replenish your magnesium levels and promote a sense of calm. Create vibrant salads using a variety of green leafy vegetables. Add colorful toppings like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, and avocado for added nutrients and flavor. Consider incorporating lean proteins like grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas to make it a satisfying meal. Add green leafy vegetables like spinach, bok choy, or cabbage to soups and stews for a nutritional boost. They can enhance both the flavor and texture of your dishes while providing an array of vitamins and minerals. 3. Fatty Fish Salmon, mackerel, sardines, and other fatty fish have omega-3 fatty acids. They have been linked to reduced levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Omega-3s possess anti-inflammatory properties, helping alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety. Consume fatty fish at least twice weekly to reap the benefits of these healthy fats. Grill or bake fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, trout, or sardines with a squeeze of lemon juice. Add a sprinkle of herbs and spices such as dill, garlic, or paprika. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a flavorful and balanced meal. You can also create a flavorful fish curry by simmering chunks of white fish such as cod or halibut in a coconut milk-based sauce with curry spices, ginger, garlic, and vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and spinach. You can best serve it over brown rice or quinoa for a hearty and comforting dish. 4. Blueberries Blueberries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants that can help combat life and workplace stress. Studies show that blueberries can protect the body against oxidative stress associated with chronic stress and anxiety. Adding blueberries to a bowl of morning cereal or smoothie provides a stress-busting boost. Blend frozen blueberries with banana, spinach, almond milk, and your favorite protein powder. Top with additional blueberries, sliced fruit, nuts, seeds, and granola for a filling and nutritious breakfast or snack. You can combine fresh blueberries with toasted almonds, feta cheese, mixed greens, and a balsamic vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing and vibrant salad. You can add grilled salmon or chicken for added protein and make it a complete meal. Moreover, you can simmer fresh or frozen blueberries with a bit of water and maple syrup or honey until thickened to create a delicious sauce. Use blueberries as a topping for pancakes, French toast, yogurt, ice cream, or cheesecake, or swirl it into oatmeal or Greek yogurt for added flavor. 5. Nuts and Seeds Almonds, walnuts, chia, flaxseeds, and other nuts and seeds are abundant in nutrients such as magnesium, zinc, and vitamin E, all of which play a role in promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Additionally, healthy fats help stabilize mood and improve overall brain function. Keep a stash of nuts and seeds on hand for a convenient and satisfying snack that supports relaxation. Create your trail mix by combining a variety of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits like raisins, dried cranberries, or apricots. Portion it into containers or small bags for a convenient and portable snack to enjoy on the go or during outdoor activities. Add chopped nuts and seeds to homemade granola or muesli for added crunch and nutritional value. Combine them with oats, dried fruits, coconut flakes, and a drizzle of your preferred natural sweetener, then bake until golden brown. Enjoy it with yogurt, milk, or as a topping for smoothie bowls or fruit parfaits. Coat chicken, fish, or tofu with crushed nuts or seeds like almonds, pumpkin seeds, or sesame seeds before baking or pan-frying to add flavor, texture, and nutritional value. It creates a delicious and crunchy crust that enhances the overall dish. Conclusion People need to relax their bodies and minds to lower stress, enhance physical and mental health, enhance sleep quality, boost productivity and creativity, strengthen relationships, and promote overall well-being and inner peace. By incorporating the above foods into your diet, you can support your body and mind in achieving a state of calm and tranquility.

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