The second wave of adaptogens ~ A new form of self-care to improve "less than normal" conditions ~ Nutritionist's Column Vol. 138

It's not a cold, and there's no known illness. But you feel unwell, tired, and unmotivated . This "pre-illness" or "less than ill" state is quietly spreading among modern people.

Although society has become more convenient, we still suffer from information overload, interpersonal stress, chronic tension and fatigue ...
"It's not bad enough to go to the hospital, but I want to feel more comfortable."
I'm sure there are many people who feel this way as they get through their days.

Adaptogens are once again attracting attention as a means to help with such " gray ailments. "
Several years after the first boom, this movement is now attracting attention from a new perspective, and it is a trend that can be appropriately called the " second wave of adaptogens."

What are adaptogens?

Adaptogens are a group of plants found in nature that have the effect of "balancing the mind and body."
It is a healing herb that has been used in traditional therapies since ancient times, such as Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and Tibetan medicine.

Its unique feature is that it supports our body's ability to adapt (adapt) to external stressors such as stress and environmental changes.

Popular adaptogens include ashwagandha, rhodiola (rhodiola rosea), holy basil (tulsi), and maca.

▶ We have also covered this topic in detail in a previous column: What are adaptogens?

What is the essence of the " second wave"? From " functionality " to " habit "

During the first boom, adaptogens attracted attention as a "savior in a stressful society" and a "natural alternative to energy drinks."
However, this " second wave " is a little different.

Rather than being merely a temporary solution, it is being reevaluated as a self-care habit that naturally integrates into everyday life .

• From "taking it because you're tired" to " preventive care to make yourself less susceptible to fatigue"
• Rather than suppressing discomfort, it aims to support maintaining a " golden golden mean " of mind and body.

Adaptogens are now beginning to be chosen as part of a new lifestyle for people who want to live comfortably at their own pace.

Examples of how to incorporate adaptogens into your daily life

1. Relaxing herbal tea

This adaptogenic tea, a blend of ashwagandha, lavender, chamomile, and more, is perfect for relaxing before bed.
It's caffeine-free, so it's perfect for those who want to improve the quality of their sleep or rethink their smartphone habits at night.

2. Energy drinks that improve focus

This natural drink containing rhodiola and maca helps combat afternoon performance slump and fatigue at work. It is recommended for those who want a gentle energy boost without relying on caffeine.

3. Stress-conscious skin care

Serums and creams containing holy basil and ashwagandha target both the skin and the mind. By turning your morning and evening skincare routine into a " soothing ritual, " you can cultivate inner beauty.

Adaptogens are now attracting attention in the beauty, food, and wellness industries, and are becoming more familiar to us.

Don't ignore minor discomforts, develop the habit of " caring "

From days of pushing yourself, thinking "I'm still okay," to days of "taking care of who I am now."
The second wave of adaptogens is gently supporting this shift in values.
It doesn't have an immediate effect, but it has the power to make your daily life a little lighter.
It's a new option that allows you to get used to being kind to yourself , rather than blaming yourself.

What we really need now is not the "power to try harder" but the "wisdom to adjust flexibly."
Plants known as adaptogens may be a small guidepost along the way.

Don't push yourself, don't rush, and go at a pace that suits you.
Please try incorporating adaptogens into your lifestyle in a way that suits you.

 

—————————————————
＼GRØN is a plant-based protein brand containing adaptogens／

Find the GRON protein blend that's right for you right now.

▼Protein recommended for beginners▼
STARTER SET Starter Kit | Welcome Set

——————————————————
Nutritionist, Food Education Instructor, Food 6th Industry Producer Level 4
Ayako Ishihara

Nutritional guidance in the healthcare field and agribusiness professional.
She is involved in a variety of activities in the fields of beauty and health, including giving lectures to Miss World Japan candidates.

With the philosophy of "enriching the mind and body through food and realizing a vibrant society where people and communities are connected," he founded i-Field Co., Ltd. in 2013 and serves as its representative.
He is a core member of the food team for "DINING OUT," which holds outdoor restaurants in various regions, and also participates in fashion brand projects.
She is also involved in promoting local ingredients, product development and production specializing in "health" and "beauty," branding, concept design, food hygiene, sales promotion, and training planning and management. She is in charge of nutritional supervision for GRØN's product development, proposing ways to incorporate these ingredients more effectively into consumer health.
——————————————————