Millions of people around the globe will have made New Year’s resolutions to improve themselves or their lives in various ways in 2024. Despite the initial enthusiasm, maintaining resolutions throughout the year can be challenging for many.
While it may sound unusual, drinking tea could help those who struggle with keeping their resolutions to stay on course.
Adele du Toit, spokesperson for the SA Rooibos Council (SARC) believes tea drinkers may be at a slight advantage when it comes to keeping New Year’s resolutions.
She says many resolutions often revolve around health and fitness, financial goals, personal development, career aspirations and relationships, which are all areas where tea-drinking can contribute positively.
“Those that make resolutions related to health and wellness, such as exercising more, eating healthier or reducing stress can benefit from herbal infusions like rooibos. The tisane is rich in antioxidants and can promote relaxation and reduce stress, thereby supporting overall well-being. In addition, drinking herbal tisanes can potentially help improve focus and concentration, boosting mental clarity.
“There’s something special about a symbolic oath taken as a resolution at the start of each new year, which we shouldn’t lose sight of.”
Here’s how incorporating rooibos into your new year routine can indirectly support and contribute to achieving your resolutions for 2024:
- A healthy body houses a healthy mind: Rooibos contains antioxidants that have been linked to various health benefits, including a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases, like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension and neurological disorders, like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The unique combination of antioxidants found in rooibos help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, making you less susceptible to disease.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining good health. When consumed without adding sugar, rooibos can contribute to your daily fluid intake, aiding healthy hydration.
- Digestive health: Herbal teas like rooibos, ginger and peppermint are known for their digestive benefits. A healthy digestive system can contribute to your overall well-being and help you feel more comfortable while working towards your resolutions.
- Replacing unhealthy habits: For those resolving to cut down on unhealthy habits like excessive intake of sugary beverages, substituting these with rooibos can be a healthier alternative. rooibos in naturally sweet, so there is no need to add sugar.
- Mindfulness and relaxation: Some resolutions involve practicing mindfulness, reducing stress or improving mental health. Taking a moment to prepare and enjoy a cup of rooibos can serve as a mindfulness practice, providing a calming ritual that helps you to relax and focus.
- Lower risk of depression: In recent years, the role of nutrition in mental health and preventative medicine, has prompted explorations into the effects of tea, especially herbal tea, on mental health. Researchers found that frequent tea consumption has a strong linear relationship with reduced rates of depression. One study determined that for every three cups of tea consumed a day, the relative risk of depression decreased by 37%.
Rooibos contains two rare antioxidants, namely, aspalathin and nothofagin, which interferes with the production of cortisol – a stress hormone secreted by the adrenal gland. Along with its stress-lowering effect, it is likely that other healthy compounds in rooibos stimulate a positive response in the gut and brain, which also improves mood. - Caffeine control: If your resolution is to cut down on caffeine, opting for rooibos, which is naturally caffeine-free, can help in reducing your caffeine intake.
“Ultimately, while tea drinking can complement a healthy lifestyle and indirectly support resolution-keeping efforts, success in maintaining goals depend on various factors, including commitment, planning, consistency and a holistic approach to health and well-being. By including a daily cup of rooibos can be a supportive element within a broader framework of healthy habits that can set you off on the right path,” says du Toit.