Alcohol-Based Relaxation Is a Myth: Try This Instead
Do you look forward to a glass of wine in the evening to unwind? Is that can of beer exactly what you need after a long day at work? You might be surprised to find out that alcohol doesn’t relax you the way you think it does. It might give you a short-term buzz, but the other consequences increase your stress level. There are other things you can do to relax that won’t end up causing you more harm than good. Here are some facts about myth-based alcohol-based relaxation and why you should swap that habit for something healthier.
The Myths About Alcohol
When it comes to alcohol and drugs, there are two different kinds of chemicals: stimulants and depressants. Alcohol falls into the category of depressants, which means it messes with the balance of hormones, chemicals, and other processes in your brain.
Some people think they need alcohol to “feel good.” They lose their inhibitions when they’re drinking, so they have a better time. This is an unhealthy habit to get into.
The alcohol relaxes you and helps you let down your guard because it stimulates the feel-good chemicals in the brain, like dopamine. But since it’s a depressant, this stimulation is quickly followed by a hard letdown.
When you drink alcohol frequently, your brain becomes confused about how it is supposed to handle stress and happiness naturally. This confusion begins to interfere with your rest, making it difficult to sleep through the night, and it wreaks havoc with your mental health and wellbeing, too.
Drinking has become even more of a problem for people since the pandemic. Statistics show that women have increased their heavy drinking by 41%, and men continue to drink too much, as well.
The result? There is an increase in depression, anxiety, and chronic health conditions like liver failure, heart disease, and diabetes. And when you’re diagnosed with any of these issues, it’s hard to relax.
Try Natural Alternatives Like CBD
Instead of using alcohol as a method of relaxation, why not try something natural? CBD hemp oil is legal in all 50 states since it’s hemp-derived, but it’s strong enough to help you relax and enjoy yourself.
CBD, which can be purchased online from the canadian cannabis dispensary and other similar online stores, works directly with your body’s endocannabinoid system. This part of your body is responsible for your overall balance, called homeostasis.
Some people confuse CBD with THC, the psychoactive chemical that causes the “high” feeling. CBD and THC are similar in that they come from the cannabis plant. But CBD doesn’t have the psychoactive aspects that THC does.
However, what it does do is activate the serotonin receptors in your body, which reduces anxiety. As it works throughout your system, everything that’s “off-kilter” in you begins to re-correct itself.
Whether your goal is to simply relax and sleep better or to improve specific aspects of your health, CBD can do the trick. Unlike alcohol, there aren’t serious, chronic health conditions you’ll deal with down the road. CBD is an all-natural, healthy, and legal way to relieve the stresses of your day to help you relax.
