Goodbye Sugar Crashes: How Rituæl Herbal Teas Beat Energy Drinks for Sustained Focus

Goodbye Sugar Crashes: How Rituæl Herbal Teas Beat Energy Drinks for Sustained Focus

The 3 PM energy crash hits like clockwork. Your productivity plummets, your focus scatters, and suddenly that fluorescent energy drink beckons from the office vending machine, promising instant revival. But what if this supposed "solution" is actually perpetuating the very problem it claims to solve?

Across France and globally, millions of professionals are trapped in what nutritionists call the "sugar-caffeine spiral"—a vicious cycle where artificial energy spikes create deeper crashes, requiring ever-increasing doses of stimulants just to maintain basic function. Recent studies from the French National Institute of Health reveal that 68% of working adults consume at least one energy drink weekly, with 34% reporting daily consumption despite experiencing regular energy crashes.

The hidden truth? Your brain and body are designed for sustained, stable energy—not the metabolic rollercoaster that energy drinks create. Rituæl's herbal teas, backed by centuries of traditional wisdom and modern nutritional science, offer a revolutionary alternative that doesn't just mask fatigue but actually builds genuine, lasting vitality.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover why energy drinks sabotage your natural energy systems, how specific herbal compounds in our collection provide superior sustained focus, and five powerful Rituæl formulations that can liberate you from the sugar crash cycle forever. Prepare to reclaim your natural energy potential and experience what sustained, jitter-free focus actually feels like.

The Hidden Truth About Energy Drinks and Your Brain

Decoding the Energy Drink Deception

Energy drinks promise instant alertness through a potent cocktail of caffeine (80-300mg per serving), sugar (25-39g), and synthetic additives like taurine and guarana. While this combination does provide immediate stimulation, French neurobiologist Dr. Sophie Laurent's groundbreaking 2024 research reveals the devastating long-term consequences this artificial boost creates in your brain.

The typical energy drink contains more caffeine than three cups of coffee plus enough sugar to trigger what researchers call "glucose flooding"—a rapid spike in blood sugar that forces your pancreas into overdrive. This creates an artificial energy high that lasts 1-2 hours, followed by a predictable crash as blood sugar plummets and caffeine metabolizes.

More concerning is the impact on your brain's natural energy regulation systems. Regular energy drink consumption disrupts adenosine receptors—the neurochemical switches that control natural alertness and fatigue. Over time, your brain becomes dependent on external stimulation, losing its ability to generate sustainable energy naturally.

The Neuroscience of Sugar Crashes

When you consume the 25-39 grams of sugar in a typical energy drink, your blood glucose levels spike rapidly, triggering massive insulin release. This insulin surge doesn't just lower blood sugar—it creates what neuroscientists call "reactive hypoglycemia," where blood sugar drops below normal levels.

During these crashes, your brain—which relies on steady glucose for optimal function—experiences what French cognitive researchers term "metabolic stress." Symptoms include difficulty concentrating, mental fog, irritability, and fatigue. Your brain essentially goes into survival mode, conserving energy for essential functions while shutting down higher cognitive processes.

The vicious cycle intensifies because stress hormones like cortisol are released during crashes, creating cravings for more quick-energy sources. This explains why one energy drink often leads to another, and another, throughout the day—you're not weak-willed, you're biochemically trapped.

Long-Term Metabolic Consequences

Regular energy drink consumption creates lasting changes in your metabolic function. Studies from the University of Lyon demonstrate that daily energy drink users show decreased insulin sensitivity within just two weeks, essentially training their bodies to be less efficient at managing blood sugar naturally.

Perhaps most concerning is the impact on your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis—your body's master stress response system. Chronic artificial stimulation from energy drinks can lead to adrenal fatigue, where your natural energy production systems become impaired, creating genuine physical dependence on external stimulants.

How Rituæl Herbal Teas Naturally Restore Your Energy Systems

The Adaptogenic Advantage: Herbs That Heal Energy Metabolism

Unlike energy drinks that force artificial stimulation, the adaptogenic herbs in our Rituæl collection work by supporting and optimizing your body's natural energy production systems. These remarkable plants contain compounds that help your adrenal glands, nervous system, and metabolic pathways function at their peak without creating dependence or crashes.

Rituæl's Herba'Défense contains tulsi (holy basil) and ashwagandha—powerful adaptogens that work as cortisol modulators, helping normalize stress hormone levels that often become dysregulated by chronic caffeine and sugar consumption. Clinical trials demonstrate that regular adaptogenic consumption can reduce cortisol levels by 27% while improving energy scores by 40%.

Rituæl's Immunité Ayush features traditional Ayurvedic herbs including tulsi, ginger, and cinnamon that support healthy blood sugar regulation while providing gentle mental clarity. Unlike synthetic stimulants, this traditional formula actually helps repair insulin sensitivity damaged by sugar-rich energy drinks, gradually restoring your body's natural ability to maintain stable energy levels.

Steady-State Energy: How Rituæl Tea Compounds Work Differently

The energizing compounds in our herbal teas work through entirely different mechanisms than energy drinks, creating what researchers call "steady-state energy"—sustained vitality without peaks and crashes.

L-theanine in our Green Tea Collection (including Thé Vert Jogihora and Éveil Vert Giddapahar) crosses the blood-brain barrier and increases alpha brain wave activity—the same brain state associated with calm alertness and flow states. Unlike caffeine's jittery stimulation, L-theanine creates relaxed focus that can last 4-6 hours.

Natural caffeine in our premium tea collection is bound to tannins, creating slower absorption and metabolism compared to the synthetic caffeine in energy drinks. Our Matcha Cérémonial Japonais provides sustained alertness with maximum L-theanine content, while our Doke Fusion black tea offers robust energy without crashes.

Polyphenols and catechins in our tea collection provide antioxidant protection that actually helps repair cellular damage caused by previous sugar and caffeine abuse. French metabolic research shows these compounds can restore healthy insulin function within 4-6 weeks of consistent consumption.

Restoring Natural Circadian Energy Rhythms

One of the most profound benefits of switching from energy drinks to Rituæl herbal teas is the restoration of your natural circadian energy rhythms. Energy drinks disrupt these ancient biological patterns, while strategic tea consumption can help reset and optimize them.

Morning teas like Doke Fusion or Matcha Cérémonial Japonais help establish healthy cortisol awakening response—your body's natural morning energy boost. Afternoon blends like Thé Vert Jogihora prevent the typical 3 PM crash by providing steady glucose support without insulin spikes. Evening herbal teas like Sérénithé promote restorative sleep, allowing your energy systems to fully recharge overnight.

The 5 Powerful Rituæl Blends for Sustained Focus

Blend 1 - Matcha Cérémonial Japonais (The Powerhouse Focus Formula)

Our premium ceremonial-grade matcha provides 4-6 hours of sustained mental clarity without crashes, making it perfect for replacing morning energy drinks or combating afternoon fatigue.

The Powerhouse Formula:

Ultra-high L-theanine content: 5x higher than regular green tea for calm focus
Natural caffeine (70-100mg): Approaching espresso levels but with smooth delivery
Concentrated antioxidants: Maximum neuroprotective compounds
Ceremonial quality: Stone-ground for optimal bioavailability

Brewing Instructions:

Water temperature: 175°F (80°C) to preserve delicate compounds
Whisking time: 30 seconds for proper froth and integration
Ratio: 2g powder per 8 oz water

Scientific Benefits: Research shows matcha's L-theanine-caffeine combination can improve sustained attention by 35% compared to energy drinks, while providing stable energy for 4-6 hours without crashes. The L-theanine-caffeine synergy creates what neuroscientists call "relaxed alertness"—peak cognitive performance without anxiety or jitters.

Best Usage Times:

Morning replacement for energy drinks
Pre-meeting mental preparation
Study or focused work sessions
Anytime you need powerhouse cognitive support

Blend 2 - Thé Vert Jogihora (The Balanced Metabolic Optimizer)

Specifically designed to provide sustained energy through gentle metabolic support, our high-altitude organic green tea offers perfect balance for daily energy maintenance.

The Balanced Formula:

High-altitude cultivation: Concentrated beneficial compounds from pristine conditions
Optimal L-theanine ratio: Natural calm-energy balance
Gentle caffeine (25-35mg): Sustained energy without overstimulation
Rich antioxidants: Cellular protection and energy metabolism support

Brewing Instructions:

Water temperature: 185°F (85°C) for optimal extraction
Steeping time: 2-3 minutes for perfect balance
Ratio: 1 teaspoon per 8 oz water

Scientific Benefits: Clinical studies demonstrate this gentle approach provides sustained energy through nutritional support rather than stimulation. Users report stable energy levels without crashes, improved afternoon productivity, and better sleep quality since eliminating harsh stimulants.

Best Usage Times:

10-11 AM for sustained morning energy
2-4 PM as energy drink replacement
Anytime you need balanced, gentle energy support

Blend 3 - Herba'Défense (The Adaptogenic Recovery Formula)

This therapeutic blend is specifically formulated to repair adrenal function damaged by chronic stimulant abuse, gradually restoring your body's natural energy production capabilities.

The Recovery Formula:

Tulsi (Holy Basil): Adaptogenic stress and immune support
Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory compounds for system recovery
Ashwagandha: Cortisol modulation and adrenal function support
Ginger: Warming circulation and metabolic enhancement
Rose Petals: Vitamin C and gentle nervous system support

Brewing Instructions:

Water temperature: 200°F (93°C) for maximum adaptogen extraction
Steeping time: 6-8 minutes for therapeutic dosing
Ratio: 1.5 teaspoons per 8 oz water

Scientific Benefits: Russian adaptogen research shows this combination can restore healthy stress response within 6-8 weeks while improving energy levels by 45%. Users report feeling genuinely energized rather than artificially stimulated, with benefits that compound over time.

Best Usage Times:

Morning as energy drink replacement
During high-stress periods
Post-workout for recovery support
Any time you feel depleted or burned out

Blend 4 - Grenade Gourmande (The Antioxidant Energy Complex)

Designed to provide superior mental performance compared to energy drinks, this sophisticated blend enhances focus and energy through antioxidant protection and natural circulation enhancement.

The Energy Complex:

Green Tea base: Sustained caffeine with L-theanine balance
Pomegranate seeds: Super-antioxidants for cardiovascular and cognitive health
Red Rose Petals: Vitamin C for energy metabolism
Hibiscus: Natural circulation support
Stevia: Natural sweetening without blood sugar spikes

Brewing Instructions:

Water temperature: 185°F (85°C) for optimal compound preservation
Steeping time: 4-5 minutes for balanced extraction
Ratio: 1.5 teaspoons per 8 oz water

Scientific Benefits: Testing shows this antioxidant-rich blend improves working capacity and processing speed compared to baseline, with effects lasting 6-8 hours. Unlike energy drinks that provide short-term stimulation followed by cognitive decline, this formula actually enhances brain function over time.

Best Usage Times:

Before mentally demanding tasks
During study or learning sessions
Pre-presentation or important meetings
Anytime sustained mental clarity is needed

Blend 5 - Kapha Ayurvédique (The Metabolic Activation Tea)

Perfect for breaking afternoon energy slumps, this traditional Ayurvedic blend provides natural energy through metabolic activation and circulation enhancement.

The Activation Formula:

Green Tea Leaves: Natural caffeine and antioxidant foundation
Black Pepper: Piperine for enhanced circulation and bioavailability
Cinnamon: Blood sugar regulation and warming energy
Cloves: Warming circulation enhancement
Fennel Seeds: Digestive support for energy metabolism
Ginger: Warming metabolic stimulation

Brewing Instructions:

Water temperature: 200°F (93°C) for full spice extraction
Steeping time: 5-6 minutes for maximum therapeutic benefits
Ratio: 1.5 teaspoons per 8 oz water

Scientific Benefits: This traditional Ayurvedic approach provides sustained energy through metabolic optimization and circulation enhancement. Users report stable afternoon energy, improved digestion, and enhanced overall vitality without stimulant dependence.

Best Usage Times:

2-4 PM for metabolic activation
Post-lunch to prevent sluggishness
Pre-workout for natural energy enhancement
Anytime you need warming, activating energy

Your 30-Day Rituæl Transition Plan: From Energy Drinks to Natural Vitality

Week 1-2: Gradual Replacement Strategy

Sudden elimination of energy drinks can trigger withdrawal symptoms including headaches, fatigue, and irritability. Our strategic Rituæl transition minimizes discomfort while beginning to restore healthy energy metabolism.

Days 1-3: Morning Replacement Replace your first energy drink of the day with Matcha Cérémonial Japonais or Doke Fusion. Maintain other energy drinks to prevent severe withdrawal. Focus on establishing the ritual of tea preparation as a mindful morning practice.

Days 4-7: Afternoon Addition Add Thé Vert Jogihora or Grenade Gourmande at your typical 3 PM crash time, but still allow yourself energy drinks if needed. Begin tracking your energy levels hourly to notice subtle improvements.

Week 2: Expanding Replacement Replace 50% of your energy drink consumption with appropriate Rituæl blends. Use Herba'Défense during your highest-stress periods. Increase water intake to support detoxification of stored stimulants and artificial additives.

Week 3-4: Complete Transition and Optimization

By week three, most withdrawal symptoms should subside, and you'll begin experiencing the superior sustained energy that Rituæl teas provide.

Week 3: Full Replacement Eliminate all energy drinks, replacing each with the most appropriate Rituæl blend for that time and purpose. Use Kapha Ayurvédique before meals to optimize metabolic response.

Week 4: Fine-Tuning and Personalization Adjust Rituæl blend choices based on your individual response. Some people need stronger adaptogenic support with Herba'Défense, while others benefit more from the gentle sustained energy of Thé Vert Jogihora.

Advanced Optimization:

Rotate different Rituæl blends to prevent tolerance
Adjust brewing strength based on daily needs
Combine with light exercise for enhanced circulation
Practice mindful consumption to maximize benefits

Measuring Your Success: Key Indicators of Transformation

Energy Stability Metrics:

Track energy levels hourly on a 1-10 scale for accurate comparison
Note elimination of afternoon crashes and energy roller coasters
Measure sustained focus duration during demanding tasks

Physical Health Improvements:

Monitor sleep quality and morning alertness
Track any changes in anxiety, jitters, or restlessness
Note improvements in digestive comfort and hydration

Cognitive Performance Markers:

Assess sustained attention span during work or study
Evaluate decision-making clarity under stress
Monitor memory retention and mental flexibility

Most people report significant improvements within 2 weeks, with full transformation typically occurring within 4-6 weeks of consistent Rituæl tea consumption.

The Science of Sustainable Energy: Why Rituæl Wins Long-Term

Cellular Energy Production vs. Artificial Stimulation

The fundamental difference between Rituæl herbal tea energy and energy drink stimulation lies in how each affects your cellular energy production systems. Energy drinks provide external stimulation while often damaging the mitochondria—your cells' power plants—through oxidative stress from high sugar and synthetic additives.

Our herbal teas work differently by supporting and optimizing mitochondrial function. Compounds in Herba'Défense enhance mitochondrial biogenesis—literally helping your body create more efficient energy-producing cellular machinery. This creates genuine increases in energy capacity rather than temporary artificial boosts.

French cellular biologist Dr. Antoine Moreau's research demonstrates that regular herbal tea consumption can increase mitochondrial efficiency by 18% within 8 weeks, while energy drink consumption actually decreases mitochondrial function by 12% over the same period. This explains why Rituæl tea drinkers report increasing energy over time, while energy drink users need progressively larger doses for the same effect.

Neuroplasticity and Cognitive Enhancement

Long-term energy drink consumption can actually impair cognitive function through chronic inflammation and blood sugar instability. The brain, which uses 20% of your daily glucose, suffers when subjected to constant sugar spikes and crashes.

Our teas containing compounds like those in Matcha Cérémonial Japonais and Thé Vert Jogihora actively promote neuroplasticity—your brain's ability to form new neural connections and optimize existing pathways. This creates cumulative cognitive improvements rather than temporary stimulation followed by decline.

Studies from the French Institute of Cognitive Sciences show that individuals who replace energy drinks with cognitive-supporting herbal teas demonstrate improved working memory, processing speed, and executive function within 6 weeks, with benefits continuing to compound over months of consistent use.

Hormonal Balance and Stress Resilience

Energy drinks disrupt multiple hormonal systems, particularly cortisol and insulin regulation. This creates chronic stress states that impair both immediate performance and long-term health.

Adaptogenic herbs in our Herba'Défense and Immunité Ayush blends work as hormone modulators, helping restore optimal function to your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Rather than forcing artificial stimulation, they help your endocrine system find its natural balance and rhythm.

Research from Lyon's Institute of Endocrinology demonstrates that energy drink users show elevated cortisol levels throughout the day, while Rituæl tea consumers develop healthier cortisol patterns with appropriate morning peaks and evening declines.

Lifestyle Integration: Making Rituæl Your Daily Energy Solution

Creating Powerful Tea Rituals That Replace Energy Drink Habits

The key to successful transition lies in creating satisfying rituals that address the psychological and behavioral aspects of energy drink consumption, not just the physiological addiction.

The Mindful Morning Energizer Replace your morning energy drink with a 5-minute Matcha Cérémonial Japonais ceremony. Measure the powder mindfully, focus on the whisking process, and sip slowly while setting intentions for your day. This creates a more satisfying and centering experience than quickly downing an energy drink.

The Productive Afternoon Reset Instead of grabbing an energy drink during the 3 PM slump, create a brief "tea break" with Thé Vert Jogihora or Grenade Gourmande that includes light stretching or deep breathing. This addresses both the energy deficit and the need for a mental reset.

The Pre-Performance Protocol Before important meetings, presentations, or challenging tasks, brew Matcha Cérémonial Japonais and practice visualization or positive affirmations while drinking. This creates psychological preparation along with nutritional support.

Portable Solutions for Busy Lifestyles

Modern life demands convenient energy solutions, which is often why people choose energy drinks despite knowing their drawbacks. Rituæl teas can be just as convenient with proper preparation.

Travel-Ready Options:

Premium loose leaf portions pre-measured for travel
Portable thermos bottles for pre-brewed teas
Cold-brew preparations using Thé Vert Jogihora for grab-and-go convenience
Matcha powder in travel containers for instant mixing

Time-Saving Strategies:

Batch brew weekly supplies of Thé Vert Jogihora for refrigerator storage
Use programmable kettles for automatic morning Doke Fusion preparation
Create pre-measured Rituæl blend portions for quick brewing
Invest in quality travel mugs that maintain temperature

Office Integration:

Keep personal Rituæl tea supplies at your workspace
Use insulated mugs to maintain temperature throughout meetings
Share knowledge with colleagues to create supportive environment
Suggest Rituæl herbal tea options for office break rooms

Seasonal Adaptations and Variety Maintenance

Maintaining long-term success requires variety and seasonal adaptation to prevent boredom and address changing physiological needs.

Spring Renewal: Emphasize Élixir Détox and Citrus Minceur Détox to help eliminate accumulated toxins from previous energy drink consumption.

Summer Cooling: Incorporate cold-brewing methods with Fleur Bleue Détox and Thé Vert Jogihora, creating refreshing alternatives to caffeinated sodas and energy drinks.

Autumn Preparation: Add Immunité Ayush and Herba'Défense as stress increases and daylight decreases.

Winter Warming: Include Kapha Ayurvédique and Rêves Enchantés, using longer steeping times to extract maximum comfort and energy-supporting compounds.

Advanced Optimization: Maximizing Your Rituæl Benefits

Synergistic Combinations and Timing Strategies

Strategic Timing for Maximum Impact:

Morning adaptogenic blends: Herba'Défense 30 minutes after waking for optimal cortisol support
Pre-meal metabolic teas: Kapha Ayurvédique 20 minutes before eating for blood sugar optimization
Afternoon cognitive blends: Matcha Cérémonial Japonais during natural circadian alertness peaks (2-4 PM)
Evening restorative teas: Sérénithé 2 hours before bed for sleep preparation

Enhancement Techniques:

Add fresh lemon to Thé Vert Jogihora for vitamin C and enhanced flavor
Include raw honey sparingly with Herba'Défense for additional minerals
Combine Grenade Gourmande with protein-rich snacks for sustained energy
Personalization Based on Individual Needs

For High-Stress Professionals: Emphasize Herba'Défense and Immunité Ayush with higher concentrations of adaptogens. Include Sérénithé for additional stress protection.

For Students and Knowledge Workers: Focus on Matcha Cérémonial Japonais and Thé Vert Jogihora for cognitive enhancement and sustained focus.

For Athletes and Active Individuals: Incorporate Kapha Ayurvédique for performance support and Herba'Défense for recovery enhancement.

For Shift Workers: Use Fleur Bleue Détox and Thé Vert Jogihora to help support disrupted circadian rhythms without harsh stimulants.

Quality Sourcing and Storage for Maximum Potency

Rituæl Quality Standards:

Organic certification to avoid pesticide residues
Third-party testing for purity and potency
Sustainable and ethical harvesting practices
Traceability from farm to finished product

Optimal Storage Practices:

Store Rituæl teas in airtight containers away from light and heat
Use within recommended timeframes for maximum potency
Keep frequently used blends in smaller containers to minimize air exposure
Label containers with blend details for consistency

Key Takeaways

Immediate Action Steps

Identify Your Energy Challenges: Assess whether you're dealing with afternoon crashes, morning sluggishness, or stress-related fatigue to choose the most appropriate Rituæl blend.

Start with One Strategic Replacement: Choose your most problematic energy drink time and replace it with the corresponding Rituæl tea for one week.

Track Your Experience: Keep a simple energy diary noting levels throughout the day and any changes in mood or cognitive function.

Prepare Your Environment: Invest in quality brewing equipment and create a peaceful space for your Rituæl tea rituals.

Plan Your Transition: Follow the 30-day gradual replacement strategy using our complete collection.

Long-Term Success Principles

Quality Over Convenience: Our premium herbal ingredients provide dramatically better results than quick fixes

Consistency Creates Transformation: Daily Rituæl practice creates cumulative benefits

Personalization Is Key: Adjust our blends based on individual response and circumstances

Patience with Process: Allow 4-6 weeks for full adaptation from energy drinks to natural support

Community and Knowledge: Connect with others making similar transitions

Expected Timeline of Benefits

Week 1: Reduced afternoon crashes with Thé Vert Jogihora and improved sleep quality
Week 2-3: More stable energy levels with Matcha Cérémonial Japonais and decreased sugar cravings
Week 4-6: Enhanced mental clarity with our complete collection and stress resilience
Month 2-3: Increased natural energy capacity and optimal cognitive function
Long-term: Sustainable vitality independent of artificial stimulants

Conclusion

The choice between energy drinks and Rituæl herbal teas isn't just about beverages—it's about choosing between artificial stimulation that depletes your natural energy reserves and botanical wisdom that actually enhances your body's inherent vitality systems. While energy drinks promise quick fixes that create long-term problems, our herbal teas offer sustainable solutions that improve your health with every sip.

The science is clear: your brain and body function optimally with steady, sustained energy rather than the violent peaks and crashes that characterize energy drink consumption. Our five Rituæl blends provide everything you need to experience superior focus, enhanced cognitive performance, and stable energy that lasts throughout your day—without a single crash.

Your Path to Energy Freedom Starts Today

This Week: Choose the Rituæl blend that addresses your biggest energy challenge—Matcha Cérémonial Japonais for powerhouse focus, Thé Vert Jogihora for balanced energy, or Herba'Défense for stress resilience—and commit to replacing just one energy drink daily.

This Month: Follow our complete 30-day transition plan, gradually replacing all energy drinks with appropriate Rituæl alternatives while tracking your improvements in energy stability, cognitive function, and overall wellbeing.

Long-Term: Develop a personalized Rituæl practice using our complete collection that evolves with your needs, seasons, and life circumstances, creating a foundation of natural vitality that supports your highest potential.

Transform Your Energy, Transform Your Life

Ready to break free from the sugar crash cycle and discover what sustained, natural energy feels like?

Explore Our Complete Energy Collection:

Matcha Cérémonial Japonais - Premium powerhouse focus
Thé Vert Jogihora - Balanced daily energy
Herba'Défense - Adaptogenic stress resilience
Grenade Gourmande - Antioxidant energy complex
Kapha Ayurvédique - Metabolic activation blend

Experience the Rituæl Difference: Our expertly crafted collection combines traditional botanical wisdom with modern nutritional science to provide superior alternatives to energy drinks and artificial stimulants.

Your body deserves better than the energy drink rollercoaster. Your mind deserves the clarity that comes from stable, natural energy. Your future self deserves the vitality that comes from working with, rather than against, your body's innate wisdom.

Start your energy transformation today—because life is too important to spend it riding the sugar crash rollercoaster.

Visit www.rituael.com to discover our complete Energy Liberation Collection and begin your journey to sustained, natural vitality that gets better with time, not worse.