From Mushroom Skeptic to Wellness Believer: How Adaptogens Transformed My Health
By Hazel Graye, actress and model
As a child, I refused any dish if mushrooms were involved—I’d pick them out one by one or avoid the meal entirely. As an adult, my roommate insisted I try her sautéed mushrooms as a stand-alone snack. Wait…mixed in with other foods? On the side? Maybe. But by themselves? I was sure this would be a failure. “Mushrooms are SO good for you, Hazel, just trust me and TRY IT!” my friend commanded. So I did. To my surprise, it was good. Incredible, actually. How could I have avoided and despised anything even remotely mushroom-related up until this point? Mere moments later, after my obvious display of approval, she practically threw her collection of mushroom elixirs and latte mixes at me to immediately implement into my routine, which I agreed to without hesitation.
I became curious to understand exactly how mushrooms are supposedly so beneficial to my health. There are many different types, how was I supposed to keep up? What does it mean to be adaptogenic? I’m a girl who loves holistic health, so oftentimes when there is an herbal option, I feel compelled to give it a try. Adaptogenic mushrooms, such as Reishi, Lion’s Mane, and Chaga, are not only antioxidant- and nutrient-rich, but can also help alleviate stress and anxiety. Upon further investigation, I discovered the capabilities of boosting mood and energy, as well as improving cognitive function, maintaining a healthy digestive system, and even the potential to regulate blood sugar. As someone who struggles with much of that, all I could think to myself was, “SIGN ME UP!”
Mushrooms of all sorts have become a normal addition to my everyday wellness routine, and it really has made a positive impact on my life. In very simple words, I genuinely FEEL better. Not only do I feel physically healthier, but I feel emotionally and mentally healthier too.
Chaga piqued my curiosity with its roots in traditional medicines and immune system support qualities, as well as Tremella for its anti-inflammatory and healthy skin support. I fully trust in anything that Ted Gibson and Jason Backe create, so I was excited to try Ascension, a Ted Gibson Beauty Wellness Science supplement including these adaptogenic mushrooms along with others I’ve already grown to love listed above. 100% organic, 100% vegan, and non GMO—this is going to be good. Plus, blue green algae from Oregon: a mood boosting superfood? Consider me intrigued.
Jason Backe (left) and Ted Gibson, husbands and cofounders of Beauty Wellness Science
Ascension
My routine? I put it in my hot coffee in the morning. How does it taste? It adds a nice, light earthy flavor to the beverage, which I personally like a lot. It’s not overpowering either, so no chalky bits to worry about. How long have I been implementing Ascension into my routine? Three weeks. The real question is: how do I feel? Well, the stress, anxiety, depression, and general overwhelming states of emotion I experience from the season, or the weather, or life happenings, have felt considerably more approachable each morning. So far, I feel enough of an impact to keep including it in my day-to-day practices. I’m focused on taking care of my mind and body, and it never hurts to try supportive supplements. My general mood is brighter and I believe I’m on an upward trajectory with my health overall. So therefore, the last question is: would I recommend it? Yes. I absolutely would.