Dieting is a powerful way to influence relaxation in your life. No matter where you find yourself on the stress spectrum, from those who thrive under pressure to those who shy away and feel the weight of the world, it is always worth being proactive about the management of external and internal stressors that you come into contact with throughout the day. One way of being proactive is by controlling what you put in your body, and it isn’t anywhere near as radical as a diet overhaul. Here are some simple and effective foods and ways that diet can be used to add more relaxation into your life, even if you are in the offic or on-the-go:

• Green tea: not only does it contain anti-oxidants, but also L-Theanine, a chemical which promotes relaxation. 
• Chewing gum: clinical studies have proven the power of mastication for lowering cortisol levels and thereby reducing stress
• Celery: a water-packed vegetable which helps lower high blood pressure, an important factor in relaxation.
• Honey: Rich in tryptophan and potassium, it is a tonic for the body and brain. If you need a quick boost, you can swallow a spoonful of raw honey. 
• Bananas: potassium and magnesium, which are found in high amounts in bananas, are good for helping muscles . 
• Dark Chocolate: contains hormones that directly balance out stress levels in the brain. 
• Nuts and seeds: rich in the vitamins, minerals and micronurients your body needs to relax. 

The stress cycle can feel a bit like you are trapped in a washing machine. At Scorca Chiropractic, we want to help extract you from this washing machine and find ways to manage your stress before it takes a more serious toll. Chiropractic modalities are excellent for helping you find pain relief, influencing true relaxation and establishing it as the new norm in your life.

Dr. Francis Scorca, D.C.