5 Natural Techniques to Relieve Anxiety
Anxiety is intricately linked to the stress response, which can serve as a beneficial and adaptive mechanism. It heightens awareness of potential danger, fosters organisation and preparedness, and aids in assessing risks effectively.
However, prolonged and recurring stress can escalate into anxiety disorders or other mental health issues. Exploring natural remedies might offer relief in such instances.
Learn about a wide range of natural and home remedies that can help with stress and anxiety below:
- Meditation
Meditation encompasses various techniques aimed at sharpening focus and attaining a heightened state of consciousness. Practitioners typically sit or lie down in a relaxed posture, either clearing their minds entirely or concentrating on a single thought while disregarding all others.
For many individuals, attempting lengthy meditation sessions or striving for a flawless practice can be overwhelming, and they find it more challenging to keep as a daily habit. Instead, it's advisable to prioritise building the habit itself and gradually refining it over time.
- Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy, a holistic practice, involves inhaling or topically applying essential oils, offering numerous benefits for wellness and stress alleviation.
Essential oils may be smelled or absorbed through the skin via massage or by soaking in a bathtub.
The following are common ways in which people engage in aromatherapy:
o Aroma sticks (also called inhalers, they are portable objects that absorb the oil)
o Aromatic spritzers
o Body creams, oils, or lotions
o Diffusers
o Facial steamers
o Salts (to use in the bath)
- Exercise
Engaging in physical activity enhances your body's ability to use oxygen and promotes better blood circulation, both of which directly benefit your brain. Additionally, exercise reduces the levels of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol while boosting the production of endorphins, natural mood elevators. This combination not only alleviates stress but also shifts your focus away from worries. Removing yourself from stressful situations to exercise provides a much-needed break.
- Journaling
Journaling typically involves the practice of maintaining a diary or journal to delve into thoughts and emotions concerning life events. It serves as both a stress management tool and a means of self-exploration, yielding benefits when practised consistently, though even sporadic journaling can offer stress relief.
One of the most effective strategies for stress reduction through journaling is to write extensively about the thoughts and emotions surrounding stressful experiences. By articulating these feelings on paper, you can gain clarity and understanding, untangling the jumble of thoughts in your mind. Consequently, journaling may foster self-awareness and insight.
- Herbal tea
The simple ritual of brewing a cup of tea and taking a moment to pause can be remarkably effective in alleviating stress, easing anxiety, and promoting a sense of balance. Engaging in this ritualised relaxation is just one of the many advantages of drinking tea.
Moreover, the type of tea you select can further contribute to stress and anxiety relief. Tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid known for its mood-balancing properties, which enhances its health benefits.
The best teas for stress and anxiety include:
- Chamomile Tea
- Peppermint Tea
- Valerian Root Tea
- Lemon Balm Tea
- Lavender Tea
- Green Tea
- Passionflower Tea
- Rosehip Tea