5 Teas That Help With Relaxation
For many tea lovers, the ritual of filling a teapot, choosing a favorite mug, inhaling the aroma of an exquisite tea, hearing the water begin to steam, and drinking that first soothing sip all play a part in stress relief and relaxation. If you aren’t a typical tea drinker, you may be surprised to find that there are certain types that help reduce anxiety and promote calmness. In this blog, we will cover five teas that can help you better relax in your daily life.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is a popular choice for those looking for a tea with relaxation properties due to its unique composition of bioactive compounds. One of the main components of chamomile tea is an antioxidant called apigenin. This antioxidant binds to specific receptors in the brain and promotes a mild sedative effect without causing any real drowsiness. Because of this, Chamomile is often used as a natural remedy to alleviate stress and tension. In addition to relaxation, chamomile tea contains compounds that act as muscle relaxants, easing muscle tension and soothing physical discomfort. Chamomile is a great option to holistically unwind and relax during life’s daily stresses.
You should try: Organic Chamomile
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is another great option for promoting relaxation and calmness but also has the added benefits of digestive relief and antispasmodic effects. The high concentration of menthol in peppermint tea can have a soothing effect on the digestive system, relieving indigestion, bloating, and other regular discomforts. This natural remedy can be used to battle discomfort due to food intolerances and heavy meals, as well as anxiety leading to stomach pain and poor appetites. Menthol is also great for muscle relaxation, and drinking peppermint tea can help relax physically tense muscles. In addition, the antispasmodic properties of peppermint tea can alleviate muscle spasms and cramps, contributing to an overall more relaxed physical feeling.
You should try: Organic Peppermint
Ginger Tea
Ginger contains bioactive compounds, like gingerol, that offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties can help reduce oxidative stress in the body and aid in relaxation. Similarly to peppermint, ginger is known for its beneficial effects on digestion and upset stomachs. Although you’d typically reach for ginger ale or Sprite for a stomach ache, ginger tea can help reduce feelings of queasiness and nausea while offering other relaxing properties. Next time you’re battling a stomach bug, try your hand at Ginger tea instead.
You should try: Ginger Fresh
Yoga Tea
Just like ginger tea, Yoga tea is an ayurvedic tea formulated to balance the body, mind, and spirit. Tracing back to India, Ayurvedic teas are part of a traditional holistic system of medicine. They contain calming herbs that help relax the nervous system and reduce anxiety. Aromatic spices are also common, such as cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg, and contribute to relaxation through aromatherapy. According to Ayurveda practitioners, the main goal of Ayurvedic teas is to balance the three doshas and achieve harmony in the body and mind, and Yoga tea offers similar benefits.
You should try: Yoga Tea
Sencha Green Tea
Although the relaxation properties of Sencha are milder than the teas above, it’s still a great option that offers a unique flavor profile. L-theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, has been long studied for its potential benefits in reducing stress and anxiety while improving cognitive function. Unlike other relaxation teas, Sencha has no sedative effect, so drowsiness isn’t a concern. Keep in mind that Sencha teas are caffeinated. The combination of L-theanine and caffeine leads to something known as “alert relaxation,” or a state of relaxed alertness.
You should try: Organic Sencha
Shop My Cup of Tea
Want to learn more about how our teas can aid in relaxation and calmness? Head over to our Youtube Channel where Bretta discusses a few of our teas and how the relaxation properties they offer. While you’re at it, follow us on Instagram and like our Facebook page - we share updates, information, and promotions you won’t want to miss.
My Cup of Tea is a non-profit in Memphis, TN that serves as an office, packing hub, retail store, and place of refuge for the women of Orange Mound. Our mission is to provide women in our community with the tools they need to thrive. We import the highest quality tea from tea estates and gardens in the Far East where they are weighed, re-formatted, and packaged for sale by the women who work here. Your purchase of our teas or other products opens a pathway for positive change and upward mobility for the courageous women who create them. Learn more about our story here.