In a Depressed and Anxious World: Teas to Enhance Our Mood
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a 25% increase in the prevalence of depression and anxiety according to the World Health Organization.* These numbers are alarming, but there are some things that you can do to reduce depression and anxiety symptoms. Drinking tea is one of those things, but it should not replace treatment from a healthcare professional if needed. Tea will not be the fix-all for these numbers, but some studies show that tea may help improve our mood, help us relax, and reduce our stress levels. In our opinion, every little bit helps.
Chamomile Teas
Chamomile teas are widely known for their calming effect. This Chamomile Lemon Mint is a popular tea for reducing stress as well as our Knockout Goodnight Tea containing chamomile and valerian root both known for improving the quality of our sleep and managing anxiety.
Green Teas
With the highest levels of l-theanine, green tea is a powerhouse for reducing stress and anxiety. L-theanine is an amino acid known for its calming, mood-enhancing effects. It can help improve sleep quality and concentration. Our shade-grown green teas such as our Everyday Matcha and Japanese Gyokuro have high levels of l-theanine. Combine this with meditation for a mind-altering experience.
White Teas
While all true tea has high levels of antioxidants, white tea being the least processed has slightly higher levels. Antioxidants are known for their anti-aging properties. Excess free radicals speed up aging and contribute to chronic inflammation. This all leads to less cognitive ability and a higher risk for depression and anxiety. Antioxidants like those found in this Silver Needle help balance the body and reduce the oxidative stress that’s killing us.
A Ritual Worth Encouraging
In our journey towards wellness, embracing small, daily rituals can play a significant role in enhancing our overall mental health. Incorporating the simple act of sipping tea into our routine offers not just a moment of tranquility but a step towards combating the stress, anxiety, and depression that have become all too common in our post-pandemic world.
While the teas mentioned above and the tea ritual itself can provide a natural avenue to soothe our minds and uplift our spirits, it’s important to remember they complement, rather than replace, the critical role of other rituals in our lives. These include but aren’t limited to social gatherings with friends, exercising, preparing healthy meals, trying new and challenging things, and of course, when necessary meeting with a healthcare professional.
We encourage you to keep going and to never give up. As we all navigate these challenging times together, let us cherish these moments of calm reflection that tea can bring to our lives, reminding us of the power of nurturing our mental and physical health, one cup at a time.
