Understanding Stress: And What You Can Do to Support Your Body

Stress is a normal part of life, but when it becomes chronic, it can disrupt our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. A common experience for those facing prolonged stress is feeling "tired but wired" - a paradox where you feel exhausted yet unable to relax or sleep. This can eventually lead to burnout, where you might feel completely drained, low on energy, and needing to sleep excessively withoutt waking up refreshed. 

In this blog, we’ll explore what it means to feel tired and wired, the difference between this state and being simply burned out, and how specific supplements can help calm the nervous system or give you the boost you need. 

Tired but Wired: What Does it Mean? 

Feeling tired and wired happens when the body is physically fatigued, but the mind is still racing. It’s common in people experiencing prolonged or chronic stress, where cortisol levels fluctuate wildly. Cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, is designed to follow a natural rhythm— higher levels in the morning to help you wake up, and lower levels at night to prepare for rest. When stress becomes chronic, this rhythm can get disrupted, leaving you feeling mentally alert when you should be winding down. 

Key Symptoms of Being Tired but Wired: 

• Difficulty falling or staying asleep despite exhaustion. 
• Racing thoughts, especially at bedtime. 
• Feeling jittery or anxious even when you're physically drained. 
• Difficulty focusing or feeling overstimulated. 

Calming Supplements for Tired but Wired States 

When your body is stuck in a wired state, calming supplements can help you unwind, soothe your mind, and support restorative sleep. Here are some of the best ingredients we recommend to regain cortisol balance:

L-Theanine

L-Theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness. It increases levels of calming neurotransmitters like GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, which can help quiet an overactive mind and ease anxiety while maintaining healthy energy levels.

Try this combination of L-Theanine and Magnesium (more on this mineral below!) in an easy-to-swallow vegetarian gel capsule: CYTO-MATRIX CYTO-THEANINE 

Magnesium

Magnesium plays a crucial role in nerve function and relaxation. It helps to calm the nervous system, reducing muscle tension and improving sleep quality. Magnesium glycinate, in particular, is known for its soothing effects, making it a great choice for those struggling with sleep issues or anxiety. 

Studies show more than 50% of people are deficient in Magnesium, making AOR Magnesium Glycinate a great choice for balancing chronic stress, easing muscle tension, and improving sleep quality.

Ashwagandha

An adaptogenic herb, Ashwagandha is well-known for its ability to reduce stress by regulating cortisol levels. It helps bring the body back into balance, especially if stress is making it hard to relax. Ashwagandha can be particularly helpful for easing anxiety and promoting better sleep. 

A great choice is NFH Ashwagandha SAP, independently lab-tested for potency and purity ensuring you get the best results from this adaptogenic herb. 

 

 

Valerian Root 

Valerian root is another effective herbal supplement for managing stress and promoting relaxation. It is often used to improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety by calming the nervous system. 

This easy-to-administer liquid formula, BOTANICA VALERIAN LIQUID HERB is best taken before bed. Enhance its calming effects with a slow, deep breathing exercise.

Burned Out: Needing a Boost 

Burnout is a different phase of stress, often following prolonged periods of feeling tired and wired. When burnout sets in, you may feel completely depleted—both mentally and physically. You’ll no longer have the energy to deal with daily stressors, and everything may seem overwhelming. Unlike the wired feeling, burnout is characterized by a deep sense of fatigue where even rest doesn’t seem to help. 

Key Symptoms of Burnout:

• Extreme fatigue, even after adequate sleep. 
• Low motivation and emotional numbness. 
• Physical symptoms like headaches or muscle pain. 
• Trouble concentrating, memory issues, and feelings of detachment.

Boosting Supplements for Burnout 

If you are experiencing symptoms of burnout, you may benefit from supplements that provide a much-needed energy boost, restore adrenal function, and revitalize your system. 

Rhodiola Rosea 

Rhodiola is an adaptogen that enhances your body's resistance to stress. It helps improve energy levels, mental performance, and mood, making it a useful supplement for those recovering from burnout. 

Ginseng

Both Asian and American ginseng can help improve energy, mental clarity, and overall vitality. Ginseng acts as an adaptogen, helping your body cope with physical and emotional stress, while also boosting stamina and focus. 

We recommend the balanced blend of MediHerb Rhodiola & Ginseng, combining these two powerful ingredients to reduce mental fatigue, support cognitive function, and relieve symptoms of stress.

Licorice Root

Licorice root supports the adrenal glands by preventing the breakdown of cortisol. This can help with fatigue, especially if adrenal depletion is contributing to your burnout. However, licorice root should be used with caution, especially for those with high blood pressure, as it can also raise blood pressure.

Metagenics Licorice Plus is blended with Chinese Yam and Ashwagandha to further enhance the benefits of licorice root, and balance the potential side-effects of this potent herb.  

B Vitamins

B vitamins, particularly B12 and B5 (Pantothenic Acid), are essential for energy production and adrenal support. They are crucial for nervous system function, making them particularly important during times of stress and exhaustion. 

NFH B5 SAP  is formulated with a blend of B vitamins, focusing primarily on B5, with high bioavailability to help support energy production, nutrient metabolism and absorption, and immune system function. 

Balancing Act: Knowing When to Calm or Boost 

Whether you need to calm your body and mind or give it a boost depends on where you fall on the stress spectrum. If you're feeling tired and wired, start with the calming supplements to support relaxation and better sleep. If you're dealing with burnout, incorporating supplements that boost energy and adrenal function can help restore your vitality. 

Ultimately, stress management is about finding balance, listening to your body, prioritizing rest, and using the right tools to support your well-being. By understanding and recognizing the different symptoms of being tired and wired versus burned out, you can choose the right supplements and approaches to better manage stress and improve both your mental and physical health. 

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, dietary changes, or supplementation.