In today’s modern world, stress is part of our daily lives. We are constantly moving from one task to the next. By the end of the day, our bodies and our minds are exhausted. That kind of stress is causing people to get sick more often and it’s lowering their life expectancy as well. It’s incredibly important that we meet stress head on and not ignore it.
The simple fact is that stress won’t go away. Instead, we need to alter our ways of dealing with it. While we can practice mental techniques to try and combat stress, physical symptoms are best fought with natural remedies.
People have been using food as medicine for thousands of years. Science has shown us that there are numerous natural remedies out there that have positive effects on the human body. When it comes to stress, some of the best remedies are within your reach.
1. Lavender
Lavender can be used in a few different ways to relieve stress. One method is to mix several drops of lavender oil into a hot bath or into an oil diffuser. The smell of lavender has been shown to calm people who are anxious and stressed out.
You can also use it a topical skin treatment, as it has several health benefits and has anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Beyond helping you relax, lavender can also be used to relieve bloating, itchy skin, and even dandruff.
2. Valerian
Valerian has been used around the world to treat the symptoms of anxiety and insomnia. It is best consumed in a tea. It helps you feel peaceful and tranquil—it works great before bed. Valerian root tea is readily available at local stores. If you prefer, you can also take it as a supplement in pill form. In either case, you’ll notice the effects very quickly! Valerian has been used as a sedative and calmative agent for over 1,000 years. It can help you sleep better, control panic attacks, and relieve headaches or cramps.
3. Cardio Exercise
Exercise in general is great for stress relief, but I’ve found cardio to be the most effective. If you have access to a treadmill or an elliptical, this is the most effective way to quickly raise your heartbeat and keep it there during an exercise session.
If need be, you can also jog around the neighborhood or your apartment complex. Be careful if you’re running on concrete or asphalt and wear running shoes. The last thing you need are shin splints—those things hurt. You may be wondering how exercise is supposed to help you relax. The answers lie in a combination of behavioral changes and neurochemical changes in your brain.
Exercise reduces adrenaline and cortisol, which are stress hormones. It also causes your body to create endorphins that act as natural ways to reduce pain and elevate your mood. Endorphins are the cause of that feeling known as “runner’s high.”
4. Theanine
Theanine is derived from green tea. According to Life Extension, it easily crosses the blood-brain barrier. It has been shown to boost cognitive function and support brain health. If you can knock out the stress in your brain, your body will follow.
The best way to consume this is by ingesting it. This can be in a supplement if you prefer, but that is how it easily enters your blood and works its magic. The reason why it is so effective lies in the way it changes your brain. It elevates levels of chemicals like GABA, serotonin, and dopamine.
These chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, regulate emotions, mood, concentration, and alertness. By raising these levels, you can promote relaxing and even sleep better.
5. Chamomile
Chamomile is a miracle worker if you’re feeling jittery or stressed. It relaxes your muscles, calms your nerves, and helps with insomnia. If you’re having digestion issues or headaches, it can even help with those things too.
Chamomile tea is easily found at your local grocery store, and it has a great taste on its own. Studies have shown that it can improve your cardiovascular conditions, stimulate the immune system, and even provide some level of protection against cancer.
Natural remedies offer a great way to meet your stress head-on and tackle it with healthy practices. These remedies can easily be incorporated into your daily routine. Whether it’s tea throughout your day, supplements, or a new exercise routine, there are plenty of options!
How do you battle your stress at the end of a long day? Let us know in the comments!
