How Mushroom Tea Fits into my Holistic Health Routines
What is Holistic Health?
Holistic health is not limited to sick-care or healthcare. It's a broader concept that encompasses all aspects of life, including physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing.
Holistic health is a way of living that acknowledges the interconnection of all aspects of life and seeks to create balance and harmony in all areas. It emphasizes the importance of taking care of oneself through healthy habits, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, good sleep hygiene, and stress management. It also includes practices like mindfulness, meditation, and other mind-body techniques that promote emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
I made Zoom Out Mycology Mushroom Teas to support holistic health. I believe that’s where we need to start with progressing sustainable development.
More On Sustainability Progress
Holistic health has becoming increasingly important for several reasons.
First, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of taking care of one's health and wellbeing in a holistic manner. People are now realizing that health is not just the absence of disease but also encompasses mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.
Second, in today's fast-paced and stressful world, people are experiencing higher levels of stress and burnout, leading to a variety of physical and mental health problems. A holistic approach to health can help individuals manage stress, improve sleep, and boost overall wellbeing.
Finally, with the rapidly rising cost of living, more people are turning to holistic health practices as a way to prevent illness and promote health and wellbeing. By taking a proactive approach to health, individuals can reduce the risk of missing work due to health challenges.
The Benefits of Tea and Medicinal Mushrooms
Tea has many health benefits, including:
Antioxidant properties: Tea is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals.
Improved heart health: Some studies suggest that regular tea consumption may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels and improving blood vessel function.
Reduced inflammation: Tea contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Lowered risk of certain cancers: Some studies suggest that regular tea consumption may be associated with a lower risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer.
Improved cognitive function: Tea contains caffeine and other compounds that can help improve cognitive function, including memory and concentration.
Increased hydration: Tea is a good source of hydration, which is essential for maintaining overall health and wellbeing.
Medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi, Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, and Maitake, offer some potential health benefits, including immune system support, improved cognitive function, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and potential benefits for heart health, respiratory health, blood sugar control, and digestive health. By sipping on a cup of herbal mushroom tea each day, you can enjoy these functional benefits in a tasty and convenient form.
How tea can support overall health and wellbeing:
Mindfulness with Tea
Mindfulness is a key aspect of holistic health, as it helps individuals to be present in the moment and tune into their physical, emotional, and mental needs. Tea can support mindfulness by providing a soothing ritual and a moment of calm to focus on the present, and some teas, such as green tea, contain L-theanine, which is known to promote relaxation and calmness.
Personal Example: Mushroom tea steeps for one hour so I like to refer to that as the power and take the brewing opportunity to clean or write.
Mindset and Self-Care
Self-care is an essential element of overall health, as it helps individuals prioritize their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Tips for establishing a positive mindset include practicing gratitude, focusing on self-improvement rather than comparison to others, setting achievable goals, surrounding oneself with positive influences, and engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.
Personal Example: Some of my favorite self-care activities are journaling, creating art, and choosing friends wisely.
Nutrition and Hydration
Nutrition plays a critical role in holistic health by providing the body with essential nutrients that support physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Additionally, staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, and tips for staying hydrated include drinking plenty of water throughout the day, consuming water-rich foods, and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake.
Personal example: I drink lots of liquids and consider myself a beverage connoisseur. On a good day I have 1-2 cups of coffee, 5-6 cups of tea, and 2 refills of my water cup.
Movement and Exercise
Exercise is a vital component of holistic health, as it benefits not only physical health, but also mental and emotional well-being. Regular exercise can improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Personal example: as a farmer exercise is built into my day to day routine.
Sleep and Rest
Sleep and rest are essential components of holistic health, as they allow the body and mind to repair and regenerate, and help individuals feel energized and refreshed. Adequate sleep and rest can also improve mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
Personal example: Both of our Reishi blends are my go to for a late night cup of tea before bed.
Mind-Body Practices
Mind-body practices, such as meditation, yoga, tai chi, and qigong, involve techniques that integrate the mind and body to promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. By incorporating mind-body practices into one's routine, individuals can support their holistic health and improve their overall well-being.
Personal Examples:
Bedtime Yoga in Springfield, OR or Tai Chi at Tea Fest PDX
In Conclusion:
Striving towards a holistic healthy lifestyle is important because it recognizes that our physical, emotional, and mental well-being are interconnected and dependent on one another. By taking a comprehensive approach to health that encompasses all aspects of our lives, we can improve our overall well-being, prevent chronic diseases, and enjoy a more fulfilling and satisfying life. A holistic approach to health also emphasizes self-care, mindfulness, and self-awareness, which can lead to improved relationships, increased resilience, and a greater sense of purpose and meaning in life.
Some of my favorite holistic lifestyle practices:
Walks w/ friends in the forests, meadows, and neighborhoods near me.
Bedtime yoga (I attend BIPOC Yoga Night in Springfield, OR when I can).
Food rituals like Sunday meal preps and growing food in the garden.
Sleeping needs (I function best with 9-11 hours of sleep).
Mental health: Journaling, Coloring Books, Music, Watercoloring.
