Stress, anxiety, parasitic thoughts sometimes result in psychosomatic symptoms: a lump in the stomach or throat, tension in the back or trapezius muscles, a migraine, nausea, tinnitus, and can, for example, lead to eating and sleeping disorders or develop into anxiety attacks and sometimes even phobias. Discover here our list of natural remedies that could help you fight your anxiety.
N°1: Take advantage of the anti-stress herbaceous plants
Stimulating adaptogenic plants can help us to tap into our hidden energy reserves so that we can enjoy life and overcome stressful situations with enthusiasm. These plants are generally more effective when eaten in the morning and treat fatigue and depression better than insomnia or anxiety. Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius from America and Panax ginseng from Asia), schizandra (Schisandra chinensis) and rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) are all adaptogenic plants that are stimulating to varying degrees.
N°2: The benefits of lavender and its essential oils
Lavender is an effective aid in case of psychological disorders such as nervousness, sleep disturbances, inner restlessness and anxiety. Its effect on the psyche is scientifically proven, as well as its balancing effect on the vegetative nervous system, which controls breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, metabolism, gastric acid production, etc. Lavender is very well tolerated: it is neither addictive nor tiring and no addictive effects have been observed. The essential oil of lavender can even be used for a long time without any problems.
N°3: Discover lemon balm infusions
Lemon balm tea (melissa offincinalis) helps to restore calm during periods of great stress and anxiety. It has no known contraindications. For moderate anxiety or difficulty falling asleep, you can infuse 2 teaspoons of dry lemon balm in 250 ml of water.
For states of great stress, it is recommended to combine the infusion of lemon balm with 1 drop of essential oil of marjoram (origanum majorana) on half a piece of sugar (as essential oils are not miscible in water).
N°4: Pay attention to your lifestyle
Did you know that regular snacking and a lack of nutritious meals can cause the same symptoms as an anxiety attack? To avoid too great a fluctuation in your blood sugar level, it is advisable to cut back on fast sugars. They are found mainly in industrial cakes, sweets, syrups, milk chocolate, etc. Slow sugars are preferable instead. They are perfect for having a good energy reserve during the day. Wholemeal bread, cereals, rice, and potatoes should become staple foods.
Also aim for a varied diet. Rich in fruit and vegetables to fill up with essential nutrients and vitamin B9. It is mainly found in green vegetables and legumes. You should also reduce your caffeine intake. Caffeine increases anxiety symptoms such as palpitations or trembling. As for alcohol, it is advisable to avoid it for anxious people. While a drink often makes you feel relaxed, it is not uncommon to feel a rebound effect once the effects of alcohol have worn off. See more studies: https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/what-lifestyle-changes-are-recommended-anxiety-and-depression.
N°5: Reduce your sugar intake
Sugar and refined carbohydrates in processed foods can create sugar highs and lows throughout the day, which can lead to symptoms of anxiety. These foods can also cause mood swings and altered energy levels, which can make it more difficult to control anxiety symptoms. Foods such as biscuits, pastries, soft drinks, fast foods, fried foods, processed meats and refined cereals should be avoided when it comes to anxiety relief.
N°6: Think about meditation and yoga
Yoga is a practice that helps to relax the body and calm the mind. Asanas (positions), breathing and meditation help to reduce stress levels, allow the body to recover and improve well-being. By refocusing attention on the body’s movements, yoga reduces anxiety-provoking thoughts and soothes the nervous system. Moreover, by promoting listening and self-awareness, this practice helps to recognize signs of stress earlier and to free oneself from it. From a psychological point of view, mediation is the best way to refocus on oneself by focusing on the sensations felt by the body and mind. Negative and positive emotions are then welcomed by the mind and allow you to let go. Breathing is the best physical way to relieve stress.
N°7: Massages can also be effective against anxiety
When stress arrives, the body tends to tense up to the point of pain. To better counter this state, massages are recommended. All it takes is a few simple, delicate gestures to find very good results. This practice can also help you to relax to find the same sensations brought by meditation or phytotherapy.
N°8: Two hours in the wilderness per week is enough to feel better.
How long does it take to spend in nature to feel the benefits? Scientists have now quantified it, concluding that both older and younger people who spent two hours a week in nature reported better health and a greater sense of well-being than people who did not go out at all. Read more info: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-44097-3.
