All Natural Anxiety Treatments
Anxiety is at an all-time high in the modern world, with at least one in six Americans reportedly living with the aid of a psychiatric drug. The fight against stress in daily life has created a market niche all in itself, with lotions, pillows, massagers, bath oils, and eye masks among some of the products meant to facilitate a relaxed state. Astoundingly, the market for treating anxiety and depression with prescription methods is worth more than $15 billion globally. Some opt to take a more natural approach, which has led to the explosion of yoga in American fitness circles, especially since the 1980s. The ancient Indian practice combines exercise with spiritual wellness and is now a helpful tool in combating stress and anxiety in the Western world. Another non-pharmaceutical option for treating anxiety is CBD oil, and its use is currently on the rise.
Refresh on What is CBD?
Cannabis, a flowering plant indigenous to Asia, has been used for centuries and is well-known for its psychoactive properties. Ancient Assyrians used the plant in religious ceremonies and burned it to induce smoke that might cause a trance. Fast forward to modern times to what is now known as marijuana; a drug consistently at the center of debate in the United States. CBD (cannabidiol), though extracted from hemp plants, must not be confused with THC, the compound that creates a psychoactive effect in marijuana. CBD oil does not create a high in users, is legal in all 50 states (unless it contains a significant amount of THC), and is commonly used for medicinal purposes; such as treating anxiety and epilepsy. Not only does it have anti-inflammatory properties, research shows that the reason it is successful in treating anxiety is that it targets serotonin receptors and may aid in the creation of new neurons in the brain.
CBD and Yoga
With CBD products on the rise in America, some yoga lovers are discovering that the two therapies combined can do wonders in their quest for anxiety relief.
Focus
CBD helps the brain focus and zero in on the task at hand, a huge benefit for practicing yoga and achieving that ultimate zen state. Part of the groundbreaking research on how cannabis products affect the human body began with the discovery of the endocannabinoid system in 1992. Research revealed that the body has natural cannabinoid receptors that directly affect the immune and nervous systems. The body produces its own cannabinoids, and these are even naturally present in the mother’s breast milk. Cannabinoid receptors are also activated naturally through meditation, hence the perfect pairing of CBD and yoga. Yogi Rochelle Bilow, usually plagued with distractions on the mat, has noticed her yoga routine has become much more focused when taking CBD.
Flexibility
In addition to the benefit of helping focus during yoga, CBD can have a terrific impact on achieving increased flexibility. With creams and salves, the oil is delivered through the largest organ in your body: your skin. Increased flexibility provides unbelievable advantages for practicing yoga and for pain relief. The New York Post published an article highlighting the benefits of CBD, told from the perspective of a woman named Tricia whose life was changed: “Inflammation is greatly reduced. My flexibility and stamina have both increased.” Marcia Bunda, a yogi in New York, experienced immediate healing in her shoulder after using cream infused with CBD. CBD can provide amazing results during pre and post-workout regimens, helping reduce inflammation before and after a rigorous exercise routine. For some, CBD has been the difference between the poor quality of life and being able to embrace an active lifestyle again.
Savasana and Anandamide
Have you heard of savasana? It’s the “corpse pose” often incorporated at the end of a yoga routine. Savasana promotes complete physical relaxation; muscle tension eases, and stress in the body melts away. Mentally, savasana exists to completely center the mind, focus on breathing and heartbeat, and rid the mind of external stressors. Yoga helps produce a neurotransmitter called Anandamide, which helps yogis maintain the feelings of bliss and calm, long after their session. Amazingly, CBD is known to help Anandamide stay in the body longer, therefore regulating moods and giving users a boost throughout the day.
With results showing that CBD helps regulate moods, decrease anxiety, increase focus, and reduce pain and stiffness, it’s no wonder that this powerful compound is taking America by storm. CBD products come in tinctures, gummies, vape oil, capsules, patches, and topical creams and salves. For more information about the wonderful uses of CBD or where you can buy CBD oil, contact an expert.
