After a hard day’s work, relaxing your body and mind can feel like an impossible feat. With the afternoon caffeine pick-me-up still coursing through our veins and a million things to do on our brains, how can we? The truth about life is that there will always be something for us to do, so we need to learn how to relax. If you aren’t a massive fan of meditation, you’re in luck. There are many delicious foods and drinks that will help you relax.
If you struggle with insomnia, you know how a long sleepless night can negatively affect your health. Luckily, sipping on some tart cherry juice before bed will relax you and help you sleep better. Montmorency, otherwise known as tart cherries, are remarkably rich in melatonin and tryptophan. These compounds work wonderfully together in calming your body, ushering you into a long and relaxing night.
You no longer have to feel as guilty when indulging in a rich and delicious square of dark chocolate because it can help you relax. Dark chocolate contains serotonin; this neurotransmitter is responsible for stabilizing your mood and behavior. In fact, many people call serotonin the happy chemical as it may help prevent depression.
That’s not all; a square of this sweet treat can contain the entirety of your recommended magnesium intake. Magnesium is a powerful mineral that relaxes your muscles, helps regulate your blood pressure, and supports a healthy nervous system.
If you are looking for less indulgent but still delicious foods and drinks that will help you relax, blueberries are your way to go. These blue wonders are jam-packed with phytonutrients and antioxidants that help your brain and body respond to stressors. Moreover, blueberries are extremely heart-healthy, increasing your overall well-being. Whether you add them to your favorite smoothie recipe, turn them into a gluten-free lemon blueberry muffin or eat a handful on the go, you can’t go wrong with blueberries.