Natural Ways to Treat Anxiety & Stress

Anxiety is a common mental health problem affecting millions of people every year. Stress is often a component of that anxiety. Although there are prescription medications to treat anxiety, there are also many natural treatments that are safe and effective. Using natural remedies will help to improve your emotional state, and should be your first step for lowing stress and anxiety levels.

1. Cannabinoid OIL
Cannabinoid oil is growing in popularity as a nutritional supplement. Many scientific studies show its effectiveness in treating a host of conditions including anxiety and stress. Cannabinoid (or C B D) is a component of hemp that has medicinal benefits. Although it’s derived from the cannabis plant, there is no THC so it’s legal and safe to use. Cannabinoid oil comes in various strengths in small bottles with a dropper. You place several drops under your tongue, and hold it for a minute to be absorbed before swallowing. For the finest Cannabinoid oil check out our Canna Botanics range.

2. A WALK IN THE WOODS
Taking a walk is a form of aerobic that releases e endorphins and makes you feel better. Although a walk around the city helps with stress, it’s more beneficial if you walk in nature. Research reveals that a person has lower stress hormones after walking in a forest than after a walk in an urban area. The fresh air, sunshine, woodsy smells, sounds of birds and babbling streams, and majestic views all contribute to reducing anxiety and creating a sense of calm. A 20 minute walk is all it takes.

3. MINDFUL MEDITATION
Mindful meditation has been used for centuries by Buddhists, and is now a mainstream meditative technique. This meditation is done by paying attention to each moment. By focusing on and experiencing what is really happening around you – your breath, the sound of traffic in the distance, the hum of a refrigerator – you won’t think about the worries and fears that cause anxiety and stress. A daily meditation practice of at least 10 minutes in which you are mindfully aware of the present will reduce the stress stemming from thoughts about possible future events.

4. YOGA BREATHING
Focusing on your breath is a classic yoga breathing exercise. Because you can’t be anxious at the same time you are taking deep breaths, this technique is immediately relaxing. Deep breathing is easy to do and very effecting for reducing stress and anxiety. Sit in a comfortable and quiet place and close your eyes. Exhale completely through your mouth. Then inhale through your nose for a count of four. Hold your breath for a count of seven. Then exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of eight. Repeat this breathing exercise a few times until you feel calm. For other breathing techniques to assist in relaxation check out this link.

5. NUTRITIOUS FOODS
Sometimes people feel stressed out and anxious because they are hungry. It’s important to eat breakfast if you suffer from chronic or temporary anxiety. You can also have a snack in the middle of the day such as dark chocolate or walnuts. Any food that has the essential nutrient choline, such as eggs, will help to lower anxiety. Studies show that a deficiency in choline can result in higher levels of anxiety.

6. HERBAL REMEDIES
Herbs have been used for millennia to treat various diseases and medical conditions. There are many herbs that offer psychological benefits and help to relax a person’s anxious mind. Drinking herbal tea a few times a day has a relaxing effect on the mind and body. Smelling soothing plant oils can also help to ease stress and anxiety. Certain scents work better for some people than others, so consider experimenting with various options.

7. A HOT BATH
A soothing hot soak is always a great way to relax. If you add a few drops of lavender oil you can turn it into a spa experience. Also adding Epsom salts will increase the calming effect of the bath and lower anxiety. The hot water also raises your body’s temperature to improve your overall mood. The hot water also relieves muscle tension which can lead to stress. This warmth may explain why exercising, drinking hot tea, sitting in a sauna and sunbathing all help to improve your outlook and well-being.

8. EXERCISE
Virtually any form of exercise, from aerobics to yoga, can act as a stress reliever. Not only can it help you keep your mind off anxious thoughts, but the healthful effects can counteract the negative effects of stress on the body.

Physical activity helps bump up the production of your brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters, called endorphins. It’s meditation in motion. After a fast-paced game or several miles covered, you’ll find that concentrating on your body’s movements allowed your mind a much needed respite.

It also improves your mood, self-confidence, and your overall quality of sleep. All of these exercise benefits can ease stress levels and give you a sense of control over your life.

9. DIET
Often it is not what we are missing in our diet, but what we are eating and drinking instead that most enhance our feelings of anxiety.

Excess coffee is a known anxiety stimulant. In moderation (once a day), caffeine may not trigger anxiety in most people, but the more you drink the more you increase your risk. Sugar, like caffeine, stimulates your body in a way that can create a jitteriness that exacerbates anxiety symptoms.

In addition to healthy guidelines such as eating a balanced diet, drinking enough water to stay hydrated, and limiting or avoiding alcohol and caffeine, there are many other dietary considerations that may affect anxiety.

BY USING ONE OR MORE NATURAL REMEDIES, YOU CAN REDUCE YOUR ANXIETY AND STRESS AND FEEL MORE EMOTIONALLY BALANCED. ANXIETY AND STRESS DON’T HAVE TO BE A MAJOR PART OF YOUR LIFE.