Many tend to go to their doctors for anti-anxiety medication or stress relief. However, the meds your doctors give you are only quick and temporary relief to an ongoing problem. There are natural ways of combating stress which are more beneficial to you in the long term.
Here is a list of natural stress relievers you can do at home instead of having to spend heaps of money on continual medications.
Lavender
Pick up some lavender oil on your next grocery run. The smell of lavender can promote quick stress and anxiety relief. You should dilute the oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil before use. Once blended with a carrier oil, lavender essential oil can be massaged onto your skin or added to your bath (5 drops). Or you could place a few drops in a diffuser when you are feeling stressed out.
Chamomile
Studies have shown that chamomile is effective in helping with relaxation, anxiety, depression and insomnia. It also improves digestion and decreases headaches. The most popular way to consume chamomile is in tea form, which you can also get at your supermarket.
Exercise
30 minutes of exercise a day can have huge effects on your mental health. It will help reduce feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. It releases powerful endorphin chemicals in the brain, which act like the body’s built-in painkillers and mood-lifters.
Fresh Air
Make it a habit to take a 10 – 30min walk in the morning or during your day. Being out in nature does wonders for the mind and fresh air is great for the brain. Research shows that fresh air, and the scents of flowers and plants, can help to relieve stress and anxiety. Oxygen is thought to affect the levels of serotonin released in the body, in turn, contributing to feelings of happiness and relaxation. Go on a hike if you have to.
Devotional Prayer
Prayer is a proven stress reliever that helps people deal with worry, anxiety and finding peace of mind. Best of all, it can be practiced conveniently any time of day and in your own home. Spending time in the morning with God will set you in motion to deal with the day ahead.
Diet
Everyone knows what you put in is what you get out and this goes for eating habits as well. A steady supply of nutrients like essential vitamins, trace minerals, healthy fats, electrolytes, amino acids and antioxidants all help your brain handle stress better, therefore benefiting your entire body. So, drop the coke and pick up a carrot.
Foods to consume:
- Foods high in B vitamins
- Foods high in calcium and magnesium
- High protein foods
- Healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids
Foods to avoid:
- Packaged or sugary foods
- Too much alcohol or caffeine
- Refined vegetable oils
Journaling
A journal is an easy, effective way to monitor your state of mind throughout the day. It will help you focus on thoughts that cause you harm and figure out what’s really bothering you when you’re unsure. A journal can also help you reduce stress by keeping you organized with tasks. Time to pick up a pen and paper…
We hope you put these tips and remedies into use in future stressful times.