CBD: everything you need to know

What is CBD?

CBD, short for Cannabidiol, is one of many natural components found in the cannabis plant. But no — it doesn’t get you high! CBD contains such a low dosage of THC (another compound in cannabis which is psychoactive) that it won’t produce the “stoned” or “high” effect that you get when you smoke marijuana. So essentially, you’re able to enjoy all of the natural benefits of the plant without the “side effects.” CBD offers many health benefits and it’s often isolated for medical use.

How does CBD work?

Alright, now let’s talk science! CBD is an integral part of the human body, since we also produce our own Cannabinoids (all animals do). In simple terms, the CBD compounds attach themselves to the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) which plays a key role in our homeostasis, meaning the balance and equilibrium between the different things that are constantly happening inside of us like appetite, pain sensation, mood, memory, regulation of body temperature, blood sugar level, pH levels, immune system, nervous system… in other words, we need Cannabinoids to stay alive and keep our bodies working at optimal level. When this system doesn’t function properly disease is created within our body. 

The CBD produced by cannabis (phytocannabinoids) mimics very well the CBD in human physiology, which is why it works so well as medicine for us.

In the past decade or more, there have been over 23,000 of studies published in peer reviewed medical journals detailing the effects of cannabis, cannabis oil, and cannabinoids on the body. Needless to say, there’s a lot of good information to be found about the positive effects of CBD for people.

A few books I recommend: Healing with CBD: How Cannabidiol Can Transform Your Health without the High & The CBD Oil Solution.

What are some of the health benefits of taking CBD?

CBD is a preventative source of plant medicine. Cannabinoids are neuroprotective, meaning they protect our brain cells from emotional trauma and inflammation. Here are some mental and physical benefits of using CBD:

• Relaxation

• Helps with social anxiety & stress

• Reduces menstrual cramps + PMS symptoms

• Treats Insomnia

• Reduces symptoms of depression

• Provides tension relief in the body

• Improves memory

• Aids in digestion

• Strong evidence for treating epilepsy

• Strengthens bones

• Relieves migraines

• Reduces symptoms related to cancer treatment

• Reduces acne due to it’s ability to balance sebum production

• Lowers blood pressure

• Helps with addiction and substance abuse treatment

What should I look for when purchasing CBD?

Not all CBD companies are the same and their quality and processes vary greatly so it’s important to order from a reputable company. The only company I order from is Thoughtcloud. After doing a lot of research and even experimenting with other brands, I finally settled with Thoughtcloud because I found they have the purest source for CBD available. When purchasing CBD always check the ingredients. Make sure there are no other additives, preservatives or emulsifiers! Keep an eye out for the levels of CBD (mg) as well, because many CBD products don’t list the exact levels. You should also pay attention to where the CBD products are coming from. Was it sourced locally? How are the products packaged? Is this company giving back to the community in any way? It’s important to make sure you fully trust and believe in the company you’re buying from. Be sure to check out reviews from their customers as well.

** Thoughtcloud CBD has only organic, non GMO, vegan ingredients — plus, they’re Reiki infused, so you know its made with love! They’re sustainable and virtually waste-free in their manufacturing, packaging and farming practices. The CBD is lab-tested immediately after it is extracted and again by a third party laboratory in Colorado. Lab results can be emailed to you upon request by reaching out to admin@thoughtcloud.net! They also have multiple scholarship and assistant programs to help those in the community who may be struggling financially. They give back to cancer patients, veterans, children’s hospitals, animal shelters, etc. Hence, why I love this company so much. :)

Use code ‘CALM’ at checkout for 20% off every time you order!

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Products

If you go to Thoughtcloud’s website you’ll see a ton of products. It’s awesome to have a variety of options to choose from, but I know this can also sometimes feel overwhelming, so I wanted to go through the site and highlight some of my favorites and explain some of the differences between them.

You’ll notice on the website there are a few different “types” of oil:

• Full Spectrum

• Sustainable Isolate

• High CBG

• High CBN

There are also different colored labels:

• Green (coconut oil)

• Blue (hemp oil)

• Yellow (pets)

• Purple (low-weight, i.e. kids)

• Orange (high CBG)

• Red (high CBN)

The only difference between the Coconut Full Spectrum and Hemp Full Spectrum is the carrier oils. Use the coconut for a milder flavor and switch to hemp if you’re allergic to coconut. There is no difference in potency. Only in taste.

And you’ll also notice different MG numbers:

• 500mg

• 750mg

• 1500mg

• 3000mg

The MG’s represent the amount of CBD per ML in the bottle. The amount of CBD remains the same in each bottle and is adjusted to keep the ratio depending on the size of the bottle. So no bottle is “stronger” than the other — the amount of CBD included in each bottle is in relation to how large the bottle is. (i.e. the 30ml will have double the mg of the 15ml and so on…)

*The only bottle that doesn’t follow this rule is the 500mg bottle which has less CBD than 750mg bottle with the same 15ml.

Now let’s look at the Full Spectrum, Isolate, High CBG and High CBN. Basically the formulas work to target different ailments. So depending on why you’re wanting to try CBD will depend on which formula you might choose. Let me list them out for you:

ISOLATE:
Anxiety, Lupus, ADD/ADHD, Stress, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, Depression, Migraine/Headache, Hypertension, Cramps, Phantom Limb, Spinal Injury, Fibromyalgia, Anorexia, Cachexia, Gastrointestinal disorders, Nausea, Diabetes, Chron’s Disease

FULL SPECTRUM:
Chronic Pain, Asthma, Insomnia, Arthritis, Inflammation, Depression, Epilepsy, Multiple Sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Spasticity, Osteoporosis, ALS, OCD

The difference between Isolate and Full Spectrum is that Isolate contains solely CBD whereas the Full Spectrum contains 5 variations of CBD. Those variations are CBD, CBC, CBG, CBN, and CBDV. 

HIGH CBG:
Allergies, Inflammation, Inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), inhibits abnormal cell growth, MS, Colon disorders, Huntington’s disease, Bladder dysfunctions

HIGH CBN:
Insomnia, Chronic Pain, Delays disease onset, CNS disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, MS Huntington’s disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease, Neuroinflammatory disorders, Fibrosis

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You’ll also see on the website there is a VAPE option and several different vape flavors as well as the Vape Bundle.

Flavors:
Cheesecake, Birthday Cake, Horchata, Waffles, Mojito, Banana Split, Pina Colada, Strawberry Limeade, Orange Creamsicle, Cherry Cola, Bubblegum

Vaping is basically a way to '“smoke” the oil, but you can remove the negative smoking connotation that goes along with it because vaping CBD with Thoughtcloud’s CBD Pen is completely safe. There is absolutely zero damage done to your lungs from this specific vape. It’s made with fractionated coconut oil (MCT), that is the reactor, so you don’t have any harsh chemicals like Propylene Glycol that a lot of other companies are using as the heating reactor and preservative in their vape pens. One big factor to consider — and perk of vaping — is that you’ll feel the effects much more immediately than the oil. So if you’re dealing with anxiety or pain, you may want to try vaping over dropping the oil under your tongue to feel more immediate relief.

Here is an article you may find interesting if you are on the fence about trying to vape: https://www.leafly.com/news/health/vaping-cbd-oil-vs-ingesting.

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Thoughtcloud’s most recent addition is their topical + skincare line!

For this line there are a variety of products as well. A couple of these products are currently out of stock so if they are at the time you read this post keep checking back because it’s worth it! 

•  Ozonated Coconut CBD Skin Cream

•  Facial Glaze Serum

•  Beauty Mask (soothe + relax + detox)

•  Full Spectrum Facial Beauty Bar

•  Pain Management Balm

•  BATH BOMBS (seriously, the best.)

• NEW** Full Spectrum Beauty Bundle (Facial Serum + Beauty Bar + Beauty Mask)

If you’re wanting to use all-natural, vegan products, these are the way to go!

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MY EXPERIENCE

I’ve been using CBD for the past 18 months and it’s been a huge part of my healing journey. From helping me manage anxiety and stress, to diminishing inflammation, reducing painful menstrual cramps and bloating to migraine relief and even helping me sleep better, I can‘t tell you enough how much I love and support the use of CBD. I’ve recommended it all to my family and friends and nothing makes me happier than to hear other‘s positive experiences from using this natural plant as well. I incorporate it into my daily routine just like any other supplement or vitamin. I use a mix of almost all of the products, so if you have a question, please don’t hesitate to send me a message and I’d be happy to help!

Which products do I use?

I use the Signature Series oil tincture which is the full spectrum and is available in 3 flavors (apple, cherry or grape). I have the apple and this is my favorite product as far as flavor goes! Another product I use is the Full Spectrum CBD (3000mg) in coconut oil (more bang for your buck), this one helps me manage any inflammation in my body and also gives me a mood boost - promotes mental clarity and concentration. The High CBG Formula helps provide allergy relief and the High CBN Nighttime Formula allows me to get better sleep. I’ve also recently started using the Isolate oil tincture which has specifically helped reduce my stress and anxiety tremendously! When I’m traveling I use the Full Spectrum Vape Pen Bundle with the Strawberry Limeade because it’s easy to slip into my pocket or bag and it provides a quicker sense of anxiety relief for when I need it. My favorite product from the topical + skincare line is the Ozonated CBD Topical Skin Issue Resolver (300mg), this helps my skin stay soft and moisturized and also keeps my cystic hormonal acne away!

How much do I use?

3-5 drops up to 3x daily of the oil tincture which is considered the “serving size”. I will sometimes incorporate the vape as well and take about 10-20 puffs.

THE DISCOUNT

I’m so stoked to be able to provide a discount code for to use anytime you order! It takes off a % depending on what your order is so the bigger the order, the more you save. AND you can use my discount code on all of their big sales promotions as well to save even more!

Discount Code: CALM

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MORE FAQS

1. Is CBD legal?

   Yes! According to The United States Agricultural Act of 2014 (the “Farm Bill”) listed products derived from industrial hemp with a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of not more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis as legal in all 50 states. Thoughtcloud products contain between 0.00% and 0.3% THC — making it completely legal for them to ship CBD products straight to your doorstep via USPS!

2. Will CBD make you high?

   No! CBD contains such a low dosage of THC (another compound in cannabis which is “psychoactive”)  that it won’t produce the “stoned” or “high” effect that you get when you smoke marijuana. So essentially, you’re able to enjoy all of the natural benefits of the cannabis plant without the “side effects.”

3. Will CBD show up on a drug test?

   There is a 0.1% chance with Full Spectrum products when taking the recommended serving, as it contains up to 0.3% THC. (I’ve been tested in the past while taking this CBD and have not had any issues.) With the Isolate products there is a 0.00% chance, as the CBD is isolated and contains no THC whatsoever. Both formulas are completely non psychoactive when taking the recommended serving.

4. What form does CBD come in?

   Oils, lotions, vapes, pills and more!

5. Can I give CBD to my pets?

   Yes! All animals have an endocannabinoid system and can benefit from added levels of CBD. Click here to purchase CBD for your pet.

6. How do I use CBD?

   CBD can be taken orally, topically or vaped.

   I place drops beneath my tongue and hold it inside my mouth for a minute or so, to maximize absorption. Most vials have the recommended servings on them, but start low and work your way up until you find the best results. Less is more with CBD.

   You can also rub the oil directly onto your skin for moisture and muscle relief, stir into your morning smoothie (my favorite way recently) or tea for an added boost of calm.

7. Is the Isolate or Full Spectrum formula more effective?

   “A study done by the Haddasah Medical School at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem compared the effectiveness of a completely purified CBD versus a full spectrum extract of cannabis flowers containing large quantities of CBD. This study found that more anti-inflammatory material was bio-available in the full spectrum extract than in the isolated CBD alone.” (via thoughtcloud.net)

   https://providahealth.com/2018/03/23/cannabis-study-full-spectrum-cannabis-extracts-medically-effective-cbd-alone/

8. Why is CBD so expensive?

   There is a long, detailed process that goes behind creating high quality CBD — from before the hemp seed is even planted to the harvesting, extraction, packaging and finally to the third-party lab testing (which is vital). If you think about it, this medicine has the power to replace your current medications, which will save you both money and health in the long run. It may cost more at the moment, but physical well being is ultimately priceless. Your body is your home and what you consume you become. Click here to read more about CBD and its costs.

   Thoughtcloud currently offer’s scholarships to veterans and those with low income. Click here to learn more.

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If you have any questions that weren’t answered here, or would like to share your own experience with CBD please say hello! I will keep updating this blog as time goes on.

Kapha Season: 7 Tips To Stay Balanced

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What is the Kapha season?

Spring is a season of change, growth and transition. According to Ayurveda, late winter and spring are known as Kapha season. Kapha is one of the three Doshas, or biological energies in Ayurveda, and it’s made up of water and earth. When balanced, Kapha gives strength, structure, stamina, beauty and immunity to the body.

Kapha season qualities include:

• Dampness and moisture from melting ice, snow or rain

• Heaviness and stagnancy in the air

• Cold and cool temperatures

• Dullness

In Ayurveda, it’s important to be mindful of what’s happening in the weather and environment because it can have an impact on what you’re experiencing internally. Even though your original “yogic DNA” called Prakit will never change, the changes you notice from external circumstances can make you feel like a different person, for better or worse. In excess Kapha, the damp, cold and heavy qualities can manifest as accumulated toxins, clogging the energetic channels and lowering your immunity. This is why the beginning of spring can trigger many seasonal imbalances, such as allergies, colds, fatigue and digestive sensitivities. 

Read more: Introduction to Ayurveda

How to avoid Kapha imbalances

To stay balanced, it’s helpful to adjust your diet, lifestyle and daily activities to suit each season. As mentioned before, Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda (the other two being Vata and Pitta.) When there is too much of one dosha, it needs to be reduced, and the other two can be introduced in greater quantities to help balance it out. So, to avoid Kapha imbalances, you simply need to reduce Kapha and counteract its qualities by adding more qualities of Vata and Pitta into your daily regimen.

Kapha balancing qualities are:

• Dryness

• Lightness, clarity

• Warmth

• Invigoration

By following the qualities above, you can help bring more balance into your daily routines, food, exercise and other self-care practices.

Below are some simple ways you can ensure to stay (or return) to a state of harmony:

1. Embrace the season. Know that Kapha qualities are not bad. But in excess they can cause imbalances. So, embrace Kapha season! Appreciate this chance to absorb the energy from the earth and make the most of this slower, sometimes darker season; it’s okay to slow down and be a little more introspective than normal to restore balance in your busy day to day life. We don’t want to ‘give-in’ to the Kapha energy, but we also don’t want to ‘fight it’!

2. Get moving! Since Kapha is heavy by nature it needs some extra movement to create stimulation and spring is the perfect time to move out some of that lethargic energy from winter. Keep it fun — move your body in new ways! Try power or hot yoga, pilates, dancing, playing a sport, going for walks, biking or joining a fitness class. If you’re inside, you can try a new home workout routine by finding free classes online!

3. Wake up early. Just like Kapha has a season, it also has a time of day: usually around 6am - 10am in which your body is programmed to be slow. By rising before sunrise you can begin the day more energized. When you step into the Kapha time of morning, it makes getting up more difficult — hitting the snooze button might be tempting but by prioritizing waking up early you’ll be able to beat the sluggishness that comes from sleeping in too late. Adjust your bedtime around whatever wake time is right for you to ensure that you get enough (but not too much) sleep.

4. Adjust your diet. Kapha dosha is slow, heavy and cold so your digestion can take on these qualities during this season. In the winter months we tend to eat heavier foods. In the spring choose foods that are lighter, drier, more pungent and warming. Spring favorites include sprouts, leafy greens, asparagus and berries. Include spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, fennel, cinnamon and ginger. Try eating less of or eliminating foods that increase Kapha — heavy, fried, cold, fat-rich foods such as meat, seafood, poultry, dairy products and foods cooked in oil — especially in the morning and at dinner. It’s suggested to wait at least three to four hours between meal to support a healthy digestion!

5. Do a gentle spring cleanse. Drink warm water or tea with lemon and ginger, like this one. Both of these are heating by nature and help to release any “sticky” or “heavy” elements within your body that you may have accumulated over the winter! Sip before meals to improve digestion and remove toxins from your body. Reduce seasonal allergies and excess mucus by using a nasal “netti” pot with warm water and sea salt when you wake up.

6. Change it up! If you feel like you’ve gotten complacent or “stuck” in any area of your life… try seeking some variety to create inspiration! Look up a new recipe, clean out your closet and try a different style, take on a new hobby and switch up your routine a little!

7. Manifest your dreams. Spring is a time for regrowth, new intentions and new ideas, so use this time to envision the specific kinds of changes that would most deeply benefit you and set specific goals for achieving your dreams. Try journaling, meditating or creating gratitude lists to help.

How do you practice staying balanced during Kapha season? I’d love to hear your thoughts and additional tips!

All my love,

Jess

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Read more:

Pitta Season: 7 Tips To Stay Cool During Winter

Vata Season: 5 Ways To Stay Grounded

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Disclaimer: This article was written for educational purposes only and is based on the tradition of Ayurveda. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

What Is Cupping Therapy?

Recently, I had my first cupping experience at Wild Earth Acupuncture- and it was amazing. I’ve always been curious about trying cupping as I love learning about different healing modalities and ways to keep the body healthy. I tend to hold a lot of stress and tension in my upper body, specifically my shoulders and upper back. Right after the treatment, I felt an immediate release in my muscles (and the results lasted for weeks!) I was truly amazed. Afterwards I sat down with Lenore, owner of Wild Earth Acupuncture and a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, and she gave me all the details on cupping.

Lenore was kind enough to write and share her expertise on the topic! Hear from her below as she explains cupping therapy, it’s benefits and other important things to know about it.

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Cupping therapy is an amazing modality that is often associated with Chinese medicine and acupuncture, but this ancient healing craft has roots in many cultures around the world. This modality consists of special cups being placed onto the skin and held there with suction. The suction can be created by fire, or air. It is often used to help people heal from injuries, reduce inflammation and pain, and increase blood flow.

Various types of cups can be used such as bamboo, horn, clay, or bone, but the most common ones used are glass and silicon. There are also various techniques that can be utilized depending upon your chief complaint. One of the most common techniques of cupping is called fire cupping, in which the therapist or Acupuncturist will light an alcohol swab or soaked cotton ball, place the flame quickly into the cup to create a suction and place the cup upon the skin. The heat nor flame never come into contact with the body. The cups can be left stationary, to focus upon a specific acupuncture point, muscle or meridian, or they can glide across the skin for more myofascial release and circulatory effect.  The silicon cups are similar yet they do not use flame but are used with small trigger that removes air from inside the cups when placed onto the skin.

These cups leave distinct marks on the body, that often fade within a few days to a week. These cupping marks are different than bruises, as the cupping does not injure cells but helps express and release old injuries and un-metabolized blood beneath the surface, which causes things such as pain or restricted range of motion. The marks vary from person to person, and are not always a clear depiction of how “well” the cups worked. The areas of the body that are being cupped are experiencing increase blood flow which can lead to decreased muscle tension, reduction of inflammation and increased circulation.

This modality is not only super effective but it also feels amazing and people walk away after the first treatment feeling better, more relaxed and in less pain. Make sure to check in with your acupuncturist or massage therapist to see if cupping is right for you!

Benefits of cupping:

• Increases healing times

• Myofascial release

• Improves circulation and range of motion

• Increases blood, lymph and Qi flow

• Improves respiratory health

• Improves gastrointestinal health

• Helpful in treating physical manifestation of stress

Caution and contraindications:

• If you are taking blood thinners

• Open wounds

• If you have sensitive skin

This article was written by Lenore Cangeloso LAc. MSAOm., a Portland-based Acupuncturist and Herbalist. Check out her website www.wildearthacupuncture.com to learn more!

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3 Tips to Help Set + Keep Healthy Boundaries

One of my goals for this new year is to create and set healthy boundaries (in my work, personal life and relationships). After sharing this on my Instagram story, I got a lot of feedback from people stating that they were working on the same thing as well! This inspired me to share a few things I’ve learned about boundaries so far…

First let’s cover the basics: what is a boundary? A boundary is a physical or metaphorical line between ourselves and others. Setting a boundary means requiring better treatment by others and not allowing someone else to run us over (or allow ourselves to become a ‘doormat’).

One thing I’ve learned recently is that setting boundaries can be hard, especially if you relate to being a people-pleaser or someone who tends to avoid confrontation. But it’s important for our mental health and overall wellbeing; boundaries allow us to separate our physical space, feelings, needs and responsibilities from others. In turn this helps to boost self-esteem, reduce burnout, increase productivity and create more fulfillment in our lives.

So… if setting boundaries are so helpful, why are they so damn hard to keep?!

One word: fear.

Studies show that women, in general, tend to struggle more with setting healthy boundaries. Often because there is a fear of rejection or fear of being unloved if a boundary is set, which feels like it could threaten closeness. In order to avoid jeopardizing that closeness, many of us will sacrifice our feelings, needs and wishes. We might be scared that the other person will be hurt or mad. We’re scared that they won’t like us or we’re scared that the relationship will end.

But actually, what's even scarier is being in unhealthy relationships or tolerating behavior that feels hurtful. When we don’t have boundaries, we invite mistreatment. When we set healthy boundaries it’s an act of self-love and self-respect. We’re being real, authentic and courageous by establishing clear and respectful guidelines.

Here are my top 3 tips for getting your boundaries set straight:

1. Know your limits. Clealy define what your intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual boundaries are with friends, family members, strangers, co-workers, romantic partners, etc. It really helps to write this down that way you have something to look at and refer back to. Next, examine past experiences where you felt discomfort, anger, resentment or frustration with someone. It may have been because your limits had been crossed. If this same situation were to occur again what would you do or say differently? Evaluate your dreams in life - what are your values? What are your goals? Learn to say no to things that don’t support your vision!

2. Be ASSERTIVE. I know this one can be difficult. Being assertive, if that’s not something you are used to, can be scary. So start small with something manageable and build up your assertive skill to larger tasks. When you decide to answer “no” to something or someone, stick with it! Sometimes people will keep pushing you to change your “no” into a “yes” to meet their needs. In this case, you may need to restate your boundary. For example, “I hear that you really need my help; however, I’m not able to meet your request.” Feel free to explain why not or simply leave it at that. For people pleasers, it can be tempting to put other’s needs before our own. But remember: your needs are just as important as those of the people you are trying to please. Your goals, wants and dreams are totally valid and if someone does something that makes you feel threatened or uncomfortable, it might be time to let that person go.

3. Practice, practice, practice. When you first start acting assertively, you may be afraid that others will perceive you as mean or rude. But affirming your boundaries means that you value yourself more than the thoughts and opinions of others. Being assertive doesn’t mean that you’re unkind, it means that you’re being fair and honest, while maintaining your peace and self-respect. Remember to practice self-love. Serve yourself first so that you can better serve others.

Setting and protecting our boundaries takes practice. Confronting someone when they’ve crossed a boundary isn’t easy. It can be intimidating and trigger our insecurities. But if we don’t learn to speak up, we can’t expect anything to change. Plus, speaking up strengthens relationships in the long run because it encourages healthy communication and promotes trust.

I hope these tips are helpful for you. Do you have any advice for setting and keeping boundaries? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Vata Season: 5 Ways To Stay Grounded

Late autumn and winter are known as vata season according to Ayurveda (yoga’s sister science). This means we may feel airy, more scattered than usual, and in need of some help getting grounded.

Below are 5 of my favorite ways to stay well-grounded, balanced and stable in vata season:

1. Practice yoga. Standing and balancing poses like Mountain, Tree and Warrior I or II, and even poses like Child’s and Savasana can help you feel more stable. Don’t forget to get upside down! Gentle inversions like Headstand and Legs Up the Wall can be simultaneously grounding and uplifting and have a calming effect by bringing blood flow to the brain (Downward-Facing Dog is even considered an inversion).

2. Get outside. Connect with nature by going to the beach or taking a hike. Practice earthing, which is the process of connecting your physical body (skin) to the Earth. One of my favorite ways of earthing is taking mindful walks — I leave my phone at home and walk barefoot outside. Simply becoming more consciously aware of your surroundings can help you feel more grounded.

3. Meditate. Helps to calm and still the body and mind. Try bringing your attention to your physical body. With a body check-in, you scan each body part one at a time — observing from head to toe (or vice versa). For grounding purposes, try sitting or laying on the floor when you meditate rather than a chair or bed.

4. Observe your breath. Pranayama (yogic breathing exercises) like Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing) or Ujjayi breathing are great tools to help bring your awareness into the now. When you’re less in the head space, your thoughts aren’t getting caught in the past or future. It’s how you can develop a strong sense of BE-ing.

5. Eat grounding foods. Grounding foods come from the earth, for example, potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots and ginger… Avocado, mango, grapes, berries, etc. It’s also important to stick to substantive, oily, nourishing foods that are high in protein and high in fat. Favor the sweet, sour, and salty tastes. In general, try to reduce your consumption of raw vegetables, cold and frozen foods, as well as the bitter, pungent and astringent tastes. For flavoring your foods use warming spices like ginger, nutmeg, garlic, cinnamon. Stick to warm foods and drinks!

What do you do when you feel out-of-sync or “spaced out”? How do you ground yourself? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

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Read more:

Kapha Season: 7 Tips To Stay Balanced

Pitta Season: 7 Tips To Stay Cool During Summer

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Disclaimer: This article was written for educational purposes only and is based on the tradition of Ayurveda. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

41 Self - Care Ideas

When life gets busy it’s easy to forget to take care of yourself. But practicing self-care can have great benefits for our well being; and making it a habit — a regular practice — can be a total game changer.

Practicing self-care is different for each person and can be different from day to day. The important part is to find balance of activities that work for you. Below is my personal go-to list of self-care ideas. I hope this list inspires you to find some time for yourself. You deserve it!

1. Gentle Yoga — check out this restorative yoga video on my YouTube channel!

2. Read a new book.

3. Get a massage.

4. Give yourself permission to binge watch your latest show obsession without guilt.

5. Go to the local coffee shop.

6. Go through your closet and donate the clothes you haven’t worn in years.

7. Bake something new — try a new recipe or an old favorite!

8. Meditate.

9. Take a social media break.

10. Edit who you follow on social media (if they don’t bring you joy, they gotta go — no matter how nice, inspiring or cool they are).

11. Call your mom, dad, or any other family member you care about just to say hi.

12. Take a long, hot bubble bath — complete with candles and calming music.

13. Dance around the house to your favorite upbeat music. This is my go-to playlist.

14. Go for a leisurely walk.

15. Order in dinner.

16. Burn a candle or diffuse essential oils that have scents that bring you joy.

17. Watch a funny movie or stand up comedy show.

18. Make a smoothie (green power smoothies are my fav!)

19. Go to the lake or beach.

20. Watch the sunset.

21. Go camping.

22. Write in your journal.

23. Read something inspiring.

24. Take a nap.

25. Go for a drive.

26. Eat at your favorite restaurant or get your favorite take-out.

27. Stay in your pajamas all day.

28. Have some warm tea (Chamomile is very calming.)

29. Write a gratitude list.

30. Make breakfast for dinner!

31. Play board games or cards.

32. Write down 5 things you like about yourself.

33. Eat chocolate.

34. Try out a new hobby.

35. Take a mental health day — and don’t feel guilty about it!

36. Plant something — a tree, a small vegetable garden, a flower.

37. Listen to a funny or inspiring podcast.

38. Create a vision or inspiration board for your future.

39. Look at the stars.

40. Buy an adult coloring book & colored pencils.

41. Write an empowering quote on a sticky note & put it on your mirror.

These are my 41 go-to self care activities. Do you have any that aren’t on this list? Share in the comments below!