Written by Joleen Shueh
As a marketing professional for the ultra luxe gym Equinox I try to stay in tune with the latest wellness trends. One that is still relatively unknown in the UK but becoming a major trend in the US, whether you are in Beverly Hills or Brooklyn, are adaptagens. I learned about them through my favorite health + wellness blogger Lee From America and am seriously all in with drinking the kool-aid.
What are they?
Adaptagens at a very high level are natural substances or herbs that can help intensify daily focus, minimize stress, boost energy levels, increase sex drive or help you balance your hormones. Added bonus, some adaptagens are also great for your skin and hair (looking at you Tocos). In incorporating a few of these to my daily morning matcha latte routine, I was able to see a noticeable difference in my moods and specifically energy levels.
The common adaptagens I use:
Ashwantaga – this is perhaps the most common adaptagen of them all, it is an Indian ginseng powered root extract that helps support strong immune system, stress relief, hormonal balance and helps to harmonize mind, body and spirit. It is often used in Ayurvedic medicine (one of the world’s oldest medical systems that originated in India more than 3,000 years ago).
Reishi Mushroom Powder – A wild mushroom that helps with improving immunity, mental clarity, stress relief, aids in protection and healing and has long been said to have longevity properties. It is known in Eastern medicine as Ling Zhi and is considered a Yin powder as it helps promote calmness and have been used to improve meditative practices and to protect the body, mind and spirit.
Cordyceps Mushroom Powder – this mushroom is one that is considered a Yang tonic as it supports mental power, athletic endurance, sexual energy, muscle tone and your immune system.
Giving them a try
Depending on how I wake up feeling, I usually have either Ashwantaga + Reishi OR Cordyceps. If it is that time of the month and I feel the need for some TLC then I go for Reishi. On the other hand if I feel the need for an extra energy boost, I will go for Cordyceps.
There are so many more out there to try, and many have different properties. My go to source for adaptagens are Sun Potion and, in my opinion, their quality is the best in the market (I also heard their founder speak in New York and it was obvious he cared and knew what he was talking about).
I encourage everyone to try adaptagens and see how it impacts your mood and overall health, but make sure to be consistent when including it in your routine - make sure to incorporate daily as my results only appeared after 30 days. You can incorporate them into your morning smoothies, teas or even coffee.
Let us know how you get on below.....
Joleen Shueh
Shameless plug alert: for those looking to get fit for the new year Equinox has just opened a brand new club in the posh St James’s neighbourhood of London. Click here to find out more.