Stressed? Tired? Run-down? Or maybe all three apply to you right now? We don't blame you; after all, life can get overwhelming at times. We here at VAAY firmly believe in recognising when you're feeling worn out, and in taking the time out for you to relax and re-centre yourself. There are plenty of ways to do this; you could read a book, talk to a friend, watch your favourite movie… the list is endless! At VAAY, we believe in the power of self-care through cleansing rituals and combining relaxation techniques for both the body and mind. How do you achieve this, you may be wondering? Well, by taking things back to basics! Is there anything better than running yourself a warm bath? Or receiving a restorative, relaxing massage? Maybe there is… by combining it with CBD! Stay tuned to learn about self-care the VAAY way and the potential calming benefits that CBD could bring to your lifestyle.

What is CBD oil?

Let's begin right at the beginning, and answer the question 'what is CBD oil?' This question has been on a lot of people's minds as of late, and has seen a particular rise in internet searches during the last couple of years. You see, people are becoming more intrigued by what natural products can offer them, and CBD is no exception! The term CBD is used to shorten the official name, cannabidiol (try repeating that over and over). CBD oil is derived from the cannabis plant. It is referred to as a compound, and it's not the only one – CBD is kept in the good company of over 100 other compounds, known as cannabinoids! The majority of these aren't so well-researched though, but it's exciting to think about what scientists may discover in the future. Have you heard of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)? It wouldn't be a surprise if you have, as it's the main psychotropic compound of the cannabis plant. However, it's not so widespread thanks to its potential mind-alerting properties. CBD is a non-psychotropic compound, however, and this is one of the reasons it's become so popular! To make CBD oil, the compound needs to be extracted from the plant and then diluted with a carrier oil, like avocado, hemp seed, or coconut oil. Then it's ready to be included in a wide range of products, from topicals to edibles and more.  

How do you consume CBD?

This leads us nicely to the much-asked question 'how to take CBD oil'? Long gone are the days where your only option was CBD oil in tincture form. Nowadays, your options are vast, and, in our opinion, pretty exciting. We will now outline the various ways that you can consume CBD below, so that you can take your pick!

Oral CBD

Oral CBD is exactly what it sounds like it would be – CBD taken orally! Here at VAAY, we offer one better than the regular CBD tincture – CBD mouth spray! This is a step up (in our humble opinion) thanks to its convenience and ease of use. It's super discreet for public use, which is handy for those of you seeking on-the-go CBD consumption. Plus, it's easy to use: simply spray your desired amount of CBD underneath your tongue and hold it there for a few seconds (up to 60 seconds) before swallowing. This allows for a more successful (faster) application, as the CBD doesn't need to pass through your liver or stomach. Oral CBD is one of the fastest methods of CBD consumption, and this is one of the reasons for its popularity and widespread use.

Edible CBD

CBD can be added to virtually any edible product that you can think of, making it extremely easy to add to your daily life. There are tons of ready-made products that you can purchase, such as dried fruits, protein bars, brownies, chocolate – we would be here forever if we were to list everything you can buy! You can also choose to make your own CBD infused edibles. This can allow you to ignite your creative streak and have some fun creating your own recipes! Edible CBD is convenient to eat while you are out and about; however, the time it takes to feel the possible effects can be considered a downside. You see, unlike oral CBD, edible CBD needs to pass through the liver and digestive system. On a full stomach, it could take you a couple of hours to feel the effects.

CBD inhalation

If you inhale CBD, then it passes through your lungs and is then diffused into the bloodstream. CBD e-liquids are inhaled with a CBD vape pen, with the primary ingredient being CBD. They can also include flavourings to make the vaping experience that more pleasurable for you. Make sure that you check out our list of CBD vape pens. There's plenty of tempting flavours for you to try, so why not enjoy our refreshing mint flavour? Vaping CBD is excellent for those of you that already know how, plus it's the fastest way for you to feel the potential effects of CBD. You see, one study published in 2004 reported that when you inhale compounds through your lungs, they can be absorbed in just one minute.

Topical CBD

If you use topical CBD, then you are applying it directly to your body, meaning that it will be absorbed via your skin. There are plenty of options at your disposal, as you can purchase CBD infused creams, shampoos, moisturisers, balms, and more! Adding topical CBD to your lifestyle is easy, with many people opting to include it as part of their skincare or self-care routines. Here at VAAY, we understand how important it is to take care of your well-being and just relax. With this in mind, we created our line of topical CBD products – make sure that you stay tuned, as later we will tell you everything you need to know about them!

The potential calming effects of CBD: the current state of research

Before we get too carried away, let us first address the research situation. Research into CBD and its potential benefits is always growing, as it's a particular area of interest for many scientists, and the public in general. There are plenty of different areas of research to uncover, but let us stay on topic and outline the key pieces of research into the possible calming effects of CBD. One animal study, published in 2014, reported that CBD may influence the levels of serotonin in animal brains (and, by extension, potentially ours) through its receptors. 

As you likely already know, low serotonin levels (among other things) are directly linked to depression. The study reported that, through this, CBD could potentially impact the symptoms of anxiety and depression-like ailments. Further research was published in 2018, when a team of scientists reviewed the current literature into CBD for depression. They concluded that, while further research should be conducted for more conclusive findings on the topic, CBD appeared to elicit anti-stress potential and could help to reduce symptoms of depression exacerbated by stress. 

The physical and mental symptoms of depression, such as feeling hopeless, stressed, tearful, and sick, can be extremely debilitating. However, CBD alone should not be used to manage depression or stress. There are many healthy lifestyle changes that you can make to help cope with the condition and help to instil a sense of calm. These are necessary changes, such as healthy eating, exercising, and adding acts of self-care into your day.

There's also a growing body of research into the potential benefits of CBD oil for anxiety. Anxiety is completely normal, and you may experience it before or even after a stressful life event, such as a job interview or big work presentation. However, if an individual has been diagnosed with any of the mental health conditions associated with anxiety, then these feelings of stress or worry can be near-constant. In fact, the NHS lists the psychological symptoms as feeling on edge, feeling irritable, restless, and a looming sense of dread. There can also be physical symptoms present, such as headaches, muscle aches, tiredness, fast heart rate, and more. One study, published in 2011, examined the effects of CBD on participants with generalised social anxiety disorder. The people taking part either received a placebo or a dose of 400mg of CBD. The results demonstrated that those who received the CBD reported that their anxiety levels were reduced. In addition to this, one review published in 2015 reported that animal studies have demonstrated that CBD may reduce rats' heart rate when the fast heart rate is caused by stress. 

Finally, a more up-to-date review was published in 2020. It reviewed eight critical studies investigating CBD's effectiveness as a treatment for various anxiety disorders. The authors of the review concluded that CBD proved an effective potential singular or combined supplement  to the treatment of anxiety symptoms associated with a range of mental illnesses. However, it was noted that a range of doses were used in the studies that they reviewed. Therefore, it's only logical to conclude that further research needs to be undertaken to establish a standard dose of CBD as a supplement for anxiety. And, of course, much like in the holistic treatment of depression, healthy lifestyle alterations can significantly help to control your stress levels, and help to calm your anxious thoughts. Also, it's important to remember that you don't need to be diagnosed with a mental health condition to use CBD for the potential calming effects that it may add to your lifestyle.

CBD Lavender Bath Bomb

Phew, the science part is over now people, let's get onto the fun stuff (hey, unless science is fun to you – that's cool too!) We aim to please at VAAY, and what's more pleasing to the senses and body than a luxurious bath bomb? No biology textbook necessary (unless that's your thing)- our CBD lavender bath bomb is the warm hug that your body and mind need after a long, stressful day. So, how do you use our CBD bath bomb? It's simple really; run yourself a warm bath and place the unpacked bath bomb into the water. Watch and marvel as the ball fizzes, and the beautiful scent is released. Once the fizzing has ceased, the 100mg CBD core is released, along with our special blend of oils and butter. Sit back and cover your body with this core, allowing the CBD to be absorbed through your skin. Top tip: keep this core on your body for a minimum of five minutes in order to reap the full potential benefits. 

So, what benefits may be obtained for our ingredients? Well, we have included Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter, obtained from the cocoa plant. Research suggests that, thanks to its fatty acids, this may help to prevent some symptoms of skin disease, in addition to soothing and moisturising the skin. We have also included Cera Alba, an ingredient more commonly known as beeswax. There's research to support that beeswax may potentially help to impact the symptoms of some skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. It's also generally soothing, and helps to keep the skin supple by locking in its moisture. Finally, the inclusion of the terpene linalool may help to promote your sense of calm and bliss. You see, the smell of it is best described as lavender, and the effects of this smell have been described as an anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), especially when the lavender is inhaled. 

And, of course, we haven't forgotten the starring ingredient – CBD! As we already know, there are potential calming benefits that it may bring; however, we would be remiss to ignore what it may be able to do for your skin. A CBD bath could potentially help to soothe dry or itchy skin, according to one preliminary study published in 2006. It examined the effects of topical CBD cream on 22 participants. The results were encouraging, as 86.4% of participants reported a reduction in itching symptoms, and the treatment had no reported negative side effects.

What's more, CBD is a known antioxidant, and as such, it may help to impact the visible signs of ageing. One study published in 2011 discovered that CBD may possibly manipulate the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body to potentially help regulate the life cycle of basal skin cells. This may help to improve the appearance of the skin, making it appear younger. It's a win-win situation in our eyes, so try out a CBD-infused bath today!

The calming benefits of bathing

So, now that we know all about the potential benefits of CBD for the mind, what about the simple act of bathing itself? Why combine the two? The answer is simple – taking a bath on its own may come with a wide range of mental health benefits. So, now you have the perfect excuse to run yourself that warm, CBD infused bath! Here's why you should be indulging in baths more often:

• One study published in 2017 studied the effects of hyperthermic baths on a group of people with depression. This entailed the participants soaking in a tub with a temperature of 40°C for a total of 30 minutes. The study reported that people's depressive symptoms decreased, and the quality of sleep was improved in the most severely depressed patients. What's more, regular baths could be more effective at helping to alleviate the symptoms of depression, as opposed to aerobic exercise.
• A Japanese study published in 2019 examined the effects of 'forest bathing' (Shinrin-yoku) on 155 participants, 37% of whom had depressive tendencies. The study concluded that a total of two hours bathing in a forest environment successfully improved the participants' psychological and physiological health. It helped to lower stress and anxiety levels.
• You can also combine bathing with other acts of self-care – the list is pretty much endless! Here are just a few examples that could enhance your CBD bathing experience. You could read your favourite book or magazine, eat a healthy snack, or indulge in some luxurious chocolate, call a loved one, or maybe even watch your favourite show (but please don't drop your device in the bath, that would be anything but stress-free!)

CBD Massage Oil

Don't fancy a bath? Or maybe you don't have one in your home? Well, never fear, for our relaxing CBD Massage Oil is here! Applying it to your or loved one's body is so simple: all you need to do is massage the oil onto your skin using light circular motions. You can even use it twice a day, if you feel like it. We have designed it with you in mind, as we know that the act of massage itself can be soothing and refreshing for both the body and mind. There are also many different types of massage that you can combine our massage oil with. 

For example, you sportspeople out there may wish to indulge in a sports massage. This type of massage may not be the most relaxing, but it can help to correct problems that have occurred due to over-exercise and straining of the muscles. Plus, it may be able to help prevent injury. So, how does it work? Well, it involves manipulating the soft tissue through deep and long strokes. 

Or, if you would prefer something a bit more calming, then why not try a Swedish massage? This is a much gentler style of massage, making it ideal for beginners. It's a full-body massage that may help to release tension in the body, as well as undo muscle knots. A variety of techniques are used, such as deep circular motions, kneading, and flowing strokes towards your heart.

Our massage oil is full of ingredients (aside from 200mg of natural CBD) that will help compliment your massage, in particular our two super oils! The first is jojoba oil, and there are many reasons why this ingredient has been hand-picked for our massage oil. First up, it's a highly moisturising agent, and this means that it may form a protective barrier over your skin, locking in the goodness. What's more, it's an antioxidant, thanks to it containing vitamin E. This may help your skin to fight off oxidative stress that is caused by exposure to toxins and pollution. Our second super oil is almond oil, and this also comes with many potential benefits, such as reducing the appearance of scars, it's purported to be an anti-inflammatory, and it may help to dissolve excess oil. Finally, our massage oil contains a warming ginger essence. This is practically like getting a warm hug, not to mention it smells delicious- and what's more relaxing or calming than that?

The calming benefits of massage

So, we know the potential calming effects CBD may have, but why combine it with a massage? Well, because the simple act of massage itself (the manipulating of the skin tissue) has proven to be extremely beneficial for both your mental and physical health. Of course, some benefits will be specific to the style of massage you choose. However, here are some of the general benefits that you may expect from a restful massage session:

• Improved skin tone.
• A reduction in stress hormones.
• A reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• A sense of calm.
• May reduce muscle pain.
• Lower blood pressure.
• Help to improve your quality of sleep.
• Help to increase your flexibility and movement in stiff joints.

Adding CBD to your lifestyle

A commonly asked question when it comes to CBD is 'when to take CBD oil'? The funny thing is that there's no one right answer to this question (I bet you wish you heard that more often in school, right?) It's all about figuring out for yourself when best to incorporate CBD and self-care time into your schedule, or it may become an 'as and when' thing for you. After all, we are all different, but we are all trying to experience calm and peace in our lives. Check out our suggestions:

• Before bed: having a long, warm bath or massage before bedtime (we think you'll all agree) is a great idea! It can help you to get a good night's sleep by setting a relaxing mood. What's more, both of these activities can help to soothe your sore muscles and therefore lessen your pain or stress symptoms. This can help you to get some much-needed restorative shut-eye!
• Before a stressful life event: it's a good idea to try and manage your nerves before completing stressful tasks. These stressful tasks could even be something fun but still nerve-wracking (think giving a speech at a wedding, or attending your graduation). You could take a long CBD infused bath to possibly help calm your nerves, and ensure that you smell daisy-fresh! Let the delicious smell of lavender from our bath bomb surround and astound your senses.
• Plan a self-care day: why not treat yourself? We all need a day to ourselves every now and again, as this can allow you to put your needs first. It's vital to be able to take time out for you, and no doubt, however you decide to spend it, you will feel restored and ready to take on the world. You could combine your CBD bath with reading a book and taking a much-needed break from technology. Be selfish – turn off your devices so that you can truly relax without any work emails or calls bothering you. Of course, we aren't suggesting that you do this during work hours! What's more, your self-care routine doesn't need to be a solo one. You could include your friends, partner, or family members who are also looking to relax and unwind. For example, it could be a great bonding experience to plan a massage night with your partner. It may have the power to bring you closer and ensure that both of your relaxation needs are met.
• As and when: this is pretty self-explanatory – use CBD when you feel like you need a little pick me up! Thanks to our self-care lending products, you can easily add them to your lifestyle with zero hassle. So, what are you waiting for? Try them out today!

 

Through our research (you're welcome), it's super easy to see why CBD has the potential to become linked with calm thoughts. At VAAY, we realise how stressful everyday life is, and we want you to view your CBD experience as something that you can look forward to – think of us as the warm hug waiting to envelop you! This is why incorporating our massage oil and bath bomb into your lifestyle can potentially help you to achieve the sense of calm you so deserve. After all, massages and baths are proven relaxation methods on their own – so adding CBD to them can only make them better, right? So, the next time that you're feeling stressed, take some time out for yourself to rest, relax, and revive with CBD. 

Rest, Relax, Revive, CBD Oil and Calm Thoughts | VAAY

Article Summary: this article examines the way in which CBD can help you add a sense of calm to your life. It answers the commonly asked question 'how to take CBD oil', (oil, edibles, topicals, vapes), with a particular focus on VAAY's CBD Bath Bomb. CBD bath bombs can provide the height of relaxation that you are looking for, as the naturally occurring terpenes can promote calm and reduce stress. 

Stressed? Tired? Run-down? Or maybe all three apply to you right now? We don't blame you; after all, life can get overwhelming at times. We here at VAAY firmly believe in recognising when you're feeling worn out, and in taking the time out for you to relax and re-centre yourself. There are plenty of ways to do this; you could read a book, talk to a friend, watch your favourite movie… the list is endless! At VAAY, we believe in the power of self-care through cleansing rituals and combining relaxation techniques for both the body and mind. How do you achieve this, you may be wondering? Well, by taking things back to basics! Is there anything better than running yourself a warm bath? Or receiving a restorative, relaxing massage? Maybe there is… by combining it with CBD! Stay tuned to learn about self-care the VAAY way and the potential calming benefits that CBD could bring to your lifestyle.

What is CBD oil?

Let's begin right at the beginning, and answer the question 'what is CBD oil?' This question has been on a lot of people's minds as of late, and has seen a particular rise in internet searches during the last couple of years. You see, people are becoming more intrigued by what natural products can offer them, and CBD is no exception! The term CBD is used to shorten the official name, cannabidiol (try repeating that over and over). CBD oil is derived from the cannabis plant. It is referred to as a compound, and it's not the only one – CBD is kept in the good company of over 100 other compounds, known as cannabinoids! The majority of these aren't so well-researched though, but it's exciting to think about what scientists may discover in the future. Have you heard of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)? It wouldn't be a surprise if you have, as it's the main psychotropic compound of the cannabis plant. However, it's not so widespread thanks to its potential mind-alerting properties. CBD is a non-psychotropic compound, however, and this is one of the reasons it's become so popular! To make CBD oil, the compound needs to be extracted from the plant and then diluted with a carrier oil, like avocado, hemp seed, or coconut oil. Then it's ready to be included in a wide range of products, from topicals to edibles and more.  

How do you consume CBD?

This leads us nicely to the much-asked question 'how to take CBD oil'? Long gone are the days where your only option was CBD oil in tincture form. Nowadays, your options are vast, and, in our opinion, pretty exciting. We will now outline the various ways that you can consume CBD below, so that you can take your pick!

Oral CBD

Oral CBD is exactly what it sounds like it would be – CBD taken orally! Here at VAAY, we offer one better than the regular CBD tincture – CBD mouth spray! This is a step up (in our humble opinion) thanks to its convenience and ease of use. It's super discreet for public use, which is handy for those of you seeking on-the-go CBD consumption. Plus, it's easy to use: simply spray your desired amount of CBD underneath your tongue and hold it there for a few seconds (up to 60 seconds) before swallowing. This allows for a more successful (faster) application, as the CBD doesn't need to pass through your liver or stomach. Oral CBD is one of the fastest methods of CBD consumption, and this is one of the reasons for its popularity and widespread use.

Edible CBD

CBD can be added to virtually any edible product that you can think of, making it extremely easy to add to your daily life. There are tons of ready-made products that you can purchase, such as dried fruits, protein bars, brownies, chocolate – we would be here forever if we were to list everything you can buy! You can also choose to make your own CBD infused edibles. This can allow you to ignite your creative streak and have some fun creating your own recipes! Edible CBD is convenient to eat while you are out and about; however, the time it takes to feel the possible effects can be considered a downside. You see, unlike oral CBD, edible CBD needs to pass through the liver and digestive system. On a full stomach, it could take you a couple of hours to feel the effects.

CBD inhalation

If you inhale CBD, then it passes through your lungs and is then diffused into the bloodstream. CBD e-liquids are inhaled with a CBD vape pen, with the primary ingredient being CBD. They can also include flavourings to make the vaping experience that more pleasurable for you. Make sure that you check out our list of CBD vape pens. There's plenty of tempting flavours for you to try, so why not enjoy our refreshing mint flavour? Vaping CBD is excellent for those of you that already know how, plus it's the fastest way for you to feel the potential effects of CBD. You see, one study published in 2004 reported that when you inhale compounds through your lungs, they can be absorbed in just one minute.

Topical CBD

If you use topical CBD, then you are applying it directly to your body, meaning that it will be absorbed via your skin. There are plenty of options at your disposal, as you can purchase CBD infused creams, shampoos, moisturisers, balms, and more! Adding topical CBD to your lifestyle is easy, with many people opting to include it as part of their skincare or self-care routines. Here at VAAY, we understand how important it is to take care of your well-being and just relax. With this in mind, we created our line of topical CBD products – make sure that you stay tuned, as later we will tell you everything you need to know about them!

The potential calming effects of CBD: the current state of research

Before we get too carried away, let us first address the research situation. Research into CBD and its potential benefits is always growing, as it's a particular area of interest for many scientists, and the public in general. There are plenty of different areas of research to uncover, but let us stay on topic and outline the key pieces of research into the possible calming effects of CBD. One animal study, published in 2014, reported that CBD may influence the levels of serotonin in animal brains (and, by extension, potentially ours) through its receptors. 

As you likely already know, low serotonin levels (among other things) are directly linked to depression. The study reported that, through this, CBD could potentially impact the symptoms of anxiety and depression-like ailments. Further research was published in 2018, when a team of scientists reviewed the current literature into CBD for depression. They concluded that, while further research should be conducted for more conclusive findings on the topic, CBD appeared to elicit anti-stress potential and could help to reduce symptoms of depression exacerbated by stress. 

The physical and mental symptoms of depression, such as feeling hopeless, stressed, tearful, and sick, can be extremely debilitating. However, CBD alone should not be used to manage depression or stress. There are many healthy lifestyle changes that you can make to help cope with the condition and help to instil a sense of calm. These are necessary changes, such as healthy eating, exercising, and adding acts of self-care into your day.

There's also a growing body of research into the potential benefits of CBD oil for anxiety. Anxiety is completely normal, and you may experience it before or even after a stressful life event, such as a job interview or big work presentation. However, if an individual has been diagnosed with any of the mental health conditions associated with anxiety, then these feelings of stress or worry can be near-constant. In fact, the NHS lists the psychological symptoms as feeling on edge, feeling irritable, restless, and a looming sense of dread. There can also be physical symptoms present, such as headaches, muscle aches, tiredness, fast heart rate, and more. One study, published in 2011, examined the effects of CBD on participants with generalised social anxiety disorder. The people taking part either received a placebo or a dose of 400mg of CBD. The results demonstrated that those who received the CBD reported that their anxiety levels were reduced. In addition to this, one review published in 2015 reported that animal studies have demonstrated that CBD may reduce rats' heart rate when the fast heart rate is caused by stress. 

Finally, a more up-to-date review was published in 2020. It reviewed eight critical studies investigating CBD's effectiveness as a treatment for various anxiety disorders. The authors of the review concluded that CBD proved an effective potential singular or combined supplement  to the treatment of anxiety symptoms associated with a range of mental illnesses. However, it was noted that a range of doses were used in the studies that they reviewed. Therefore, it's only logical to conclude that further research needs to be undertaken to establish a standard dose of CBD as a supplement for anxiety. And, of course, much like in the holistic treatment of depression, healthy lifestyle alterations can significantly help to control your stress levels, and help to calm your anxious thoughts. Also, it's important to remember that you don't need to be diagnosed with a mental health condition to use CBD for the potential calming effects that it may add to your lifestyle.

CBD Lavender Bath Bomb

Phew, the science part is over now people, let's get onto the fun stuff (hey, unless science is fun to you – that's cool too!) We aim to please at VAAY, and what's more pleasing to the senses and body than a luxurious bath bomb? No biology textbook necessary (unless that's your thing)- our CBD lavender bath bomb is the warm hug that your body and mind need after a long, stressful day. So, how do you use our CBD bath bomb? It's simple really; run yourself a warm bath and place the unpacked bath bomb into the water. Watch and marvel as the ball fizzes, and the beautiful scent is released. Once the fizzing has ceased, the 100mg CBD core is released, along with our special blend of oils and butter. Sit back and cover your body with this core, allowing the CBD to be absorbed through your skin. Top tip: keep this core on your body for a minimum of five minutes in order to reap the full potential benefits. 

So, what benefits may be obtained for our ingredients? Well, we have included Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter, obtained from the cocoa plant. Research suggests that, thanks to its fatty acids, this may help to prevent some symptoms of skin disease, in addition to soothing and moisturising the skin. We have also included Cera Alba, an ingredient more commonly known as beeswax. There's research to support that beeswax may potentially help to impact the symptoms of some skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. It's also generally soothing, and helps to keep the skin supple by locking in its moisture. Finally, the inclusion of the terpene linalool may help to promote your sense of calm and bliss. You see, the smell of it is best described as lavender, and the effects of this smell have been described as an anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), especially when the lavender is inhaled. 

And, of course, we haven't forgotten the starring ingredient – CBD! As we already know, there are potential calming benefits that it may bring; however, we would be remiss to ignore what it may be able to do for your skin. A CBD bath could potentially help to soothe dry or itchy skin, according to one preliminary study published in 2006. It examined the effects of topical CBD cream on 22 participants. The results were encouraging, as 86.4% of participants reported a reduction in itching symptoms, and the treatment had no reported negative side effects.

What's more, CBD is a known antioxidant, and as such, it may help to impact the visible signs of ageing. One study published in 2011 discovered that CBD may possibly manipulate the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body to potentially help regulate the life cycle of basal skin cells. This may help to improve the appearance of the skin, making it appear younger. It's a win-win situation in our eyes, so try out a CBD-infused bath today!

The calming benefits of bathing

So, now that we know all about the potential benefits of CBD for the mind, what about the simple act of bathing itself? Why combine the two? The answer is simple – taking a bath on its own may come with a wide range of mental health benefits. So, now you have the perfect excuse to run yourself that warm, CBD infused bath! Here's why you should be indulging in baths more often:

• One study published in 2017 studied the effects of hyperthermic baths on a group of people with depression. This entailed the participants soaking in a tub with a temperature of 40°C for a total of 30 minutes. The study reported that people's depressive symptoms decreased, and the quality of sleep was improved in the most severely depressed patients. What's more, regular baths could be more effective at helping to alleviate the symptoms of depression, as opposed to aerobic exercise.
• A Japanese study published in 2019 examined the effects of 'forest bathing' (Shinrin-yoku) on 155 participants, 37% of whom had depressive tendencies. The study concluded that a total of two hours bathing in a forest environment successfully improved the participants' psychological and physiological health. It helped to lower stress and anxiety levels.
• You can also combine bathing with other acts of self-care – the list is pretty much endless! Here are just a few examples that could enhance your CBD bathing experience. You could read your favourite book or magazine, eat a healthy snack, or indulge in some luxurious chocolate, call a loved one, or maybe even watch your favourite show (but please don't drop your device in the bath, that would be anything but stress-free!)

CBD Massage Oil

Don't fancy a bath? Or maybe you don't have one in your home? Well, never fear, for our relaxing CBD Massage Oil is here! Applying it to your or loved one's body is so simple: all you need to do is massage the oil onto your skin using light circular motions. You can even use it twice a day, if you feel like it. We have designed it with you in mind, as we know that the act of massage itself can be soothing and refreshing for both the body and mind. There are also many different types of massage that you can combine our massage oil with. 

For example, you sportspeople out there may wish to indulge in a sports massage. This type of massage may not be the most relaxing, but it can help to correct problems that have occurred due to over-exercise and straining of the muscles. Plus, it may be able to help prevent injury. So, how does it work? Well, it involves manipulating the soft tissue through deep and long strokes. 

Or, if you would prefer something a bit more calming, then why not try a Swedish massage? This is a much gentler style of massage, making it ideal for beginners. It's a full-body massage that may help to release tension in the body, as well as undo muscle knots. A variety of techniques are used, such as deep circular motions, kneading, and flowing strokes towards your heart.

Our massage oil is full of ingredients (aside from 200mg of natural CBD) that will help compliment your massage, in particular our two super oils! The first is jojoba oil, and there are many reasons why this ingredient has been hand-picked for our massage oil. First up, it's a highly moisturising agent, and this means that it may form a protective barrier over your skin, locking in the goodness. What's more, it's an antioxidant, thanks to it containing vitamin E. This may help your skin to fight off oxidative stress that is caused by exposure to toxins and pollution. Our second super oil is almond oil, and this also comes with many potential benefits, such as reducing the appearance of scars, it's purported to be an anti-inflammatory, and it may help to dissolve excess oil. Finally, our massage oil contains a warming ginger essence. This is practically like getting a warm hug, not to mention it smells delicious- and what's more relaxing or calming than that?

The calming benefits of massage

So, we know the potential calming effects CBD may have, but why combine it with a massage? Well, because the simple act of massage itself (the manipulating of the skin tissue) has proven to be extremely beneficial for both your mental and physical health. Of course, some benefits will be specific to the style of massage you choose. However, here are some of the general benefits that you may expect from a restful massage session:

• Improved skin tone.
• A reduction in stress hormones.
• A reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• A sense of calm.
• May reduce muscle pain.
• Lower blood pressure.
• Help to improve your quality of sleep.
• Help to increase your flexibility and movement in stiff joints.

Adding CBD to your lifestyle

A commonly asked question when it comes to CBD is 'when to take CBD oil'? The funny thing is that there's no one right answer to this question (I bet you wish you heard that more often in school, right?) It's all about figuring out for yourself when best to incorporate CBD and self-care time into your schedule, or it may become an 'as and when' thing for you. After all, we are all different, but we are all trying to experience calm and peace in our lives. Check out our suggestions:

• Before bed: having a long, warm bath or massage before bedtime (we think you'll all agree) is a great idea! It can help you to get a good night's sleep by setting a relaxing mood. What's more, both of these activities can help to soothe your sore muscles and therefore lessen your pain or stress symptoms. This can help you to get some much-needed restorative shut-eye!
• Before a stressful life event: it's a good idea to try and manage your nerves before completing stressful tasks. These stressful tasks could even be something fun but still nerve-wracking (think giving a speech at a wedding, or attending your graduation). You could take a long CBD infused bath to possibly help calm your nerves, and ensure that you smell daisy-fresh! Let the delicious smell of lavender from our bath bomb surround and astound your senses.
• Plan a self-care day: why not treat yourself? We all need a day to ourselves every now and again, as this can allow you to put your needs first. It's vital to be able to take time out for you, and no doubt, however you decide to spend it, you will feel restored and ready to take on the world. You could combine your CBD bath with reading a book and taking a much-needed break from technology. Be selfish – turn off your devices so that you can truly relax without any work emails or calls bothering you. Of course, we aren't suggesting that you do this during work hours! What's more, your self-care routine doesn't need to be a solo one. You could include your friends, partner, or family members who are also looking to relax and unwind. For example, it could be a great bonding experience to plan a massage night with your partner. It may have the power to bring you closer and ensure that both of your relaxation needs are met.
• As and when: this is pretty self-explanatory – use CBD when you feel like you need a little pick me up! Thanks to our self-care lending products, you can easily add them to your lifestyle with zero hassle. So, what are you waiting for? Try them out today!

Through our research (you're welcome), it's super easy to see why CBD has the potential to become linked with calm thoughts. At VAAY, we realise how stressful everyday life is, and we want you to view your CBD experience as something that you can look forward to – think of us as the warm hug waiting to envelop you! This is why incorporating our massage oil and bath bomb into your lifestyle can potentially help you to achieve the sense of calm you so deserve. After all, massages and baths are proven relaxation methods on their own – so adding CBD to them can only make them better, right? So, the next time that you're feeling stressed, take some time out for yourself to rest, relax, and revive with CBD.