High stress? Low energy?

You know those days when motivation just isn’t there - no matter how much coffee or pep talks you give yourself?

That’s not a character flaw.
That’s chemistry.

When stress stays high (hello, cortisol), dopamine takes a nosedive - and that “get up and go” feeling disappears. You don’t need more willpower - you need better balance.

We’ve talked before about movement, protein, and rest (your foundation) - but there’s another tool worth knowing about:

🌿 Adaptogens.

They’re plants and herbs that help your body adapt to stress - balancing out your cortisol so your energy, focus, and motivation stay steady. Unlike stimulants, they don’t spike you and then crash you - they work with your body.

Here’s what matters most when choosing adaptogens:

1. Quality first.

Look for organic, minimally processed, and third-party tested products.

Cheap powders or capsules often contain fillers and won’t give you the benefits you’re after.

2. Start small.

Pick one adaptogen at a time for one week. Track how your energy and focus change.

3. Timing & form matter.

Energizing adaptogens (maca, rhodiola) → morning or early day in smoothies, coffee, or capsules.

Calming adaptogens (ashwagandha, holy basil) → evening in tea or capsules to help you wind down.

4. Consistency is key.

These herbs work gradually. Daily use over a few weeks gives your brain and body a chance to reset stress and support steady dopamine levels.

Beginner-friendly picks:

✨ Ashwagandha – helps calm stress hormones and supports more stable energy (especially good if you’re feeling wired-but-tired).

✨ Rhodiola – boosts mental clarity and endurance, especially when you’re running on low sleep or high stress.

✨ Maca root – supports hormone balance and can help lift mood and libido (yep, that too 😉).

✨ Schisandra – supports liver detox and boosts endurance while keeping stress hormones in check.

✨ Holy Basil (Tulsi) – helps calm stress, support immunity, and steady energy throughout the day.

💡 Mini Challenge: Find Your Routine

We’ve created a clickable mini routine challenge so you can pick the pattern that fits your symptoms this week:

High Stress / Wired but Tired → evening adaptogens + wind-down routine

Low Energy / Afternoon Slump → morning energizing adaptogens + movement

Hormone Balancing / Mood Swings → maca + morning protein + evening stress support

👉 Click here to find your routine and follow the 1-week challenge!