Stress and anxiety have become common issues in today’s society, affecting people in all parts of the world and from all walks of life. According to a 2021 study by Gallup, four in 10 adults worldwide said they experience a lot of stress and worry, while the World Health Organization reports that almost 4% of the global population suffers from an anxiety disorder.
Stress and anxiety can be caused by a variety of factors, from job issues to financial trouble or health concerns. Some people might experience stress because of their day-to-day activities and responsibilities, while for others, the source of stress might be more specific, such as investing in risky assets like Bitcoin or Ethereum or going through a painful breakup.
Advances in pharmaceuticals and the medical field provide us with various treatments to keep stress and anxiety in check, including tranquillizers, beta-blockers, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). However, given that all these medications come with potential side effects, many prefer to take a more natural approach to addressing common stress and anxiety symptoms. That’s where natural treatments and therapies come into play.
Unlike allopathic medicine practices, natural remedies have fewer or no side effects, are generally safe to use can even complement conventional medical treatments. That’s why a lot of people these days are interested in trying relaxation techniques and strategies that don’t involve medication. Nevertheless, it’s still important to consult with a certified medical professional before giving alternative treatments a try in order to avoid risks.
So, if you’re looking for natural remedies to help you fight daily stress and anxiety, here are a few things that could make a difference.
Stay active
Any form of physical activity can serve as a powerful antidote against stress and anxiety. That’s because exercise stimulates the production of endorphins, the body’s feel-good chemicals that act as a natural pain and stress reliever.
So, you don’t have to practice a certain sport or go to the gym to reduce symptoms associated with stress and anxiety. Even a walk in the park, climbing stairs or riding your bike can help you reduce stress levels. The point is to engage in activities that encourage you to move and keep you physically active. You should try to get away from screens and the digital innovations of the modern world every once in a while and make more time for movement.
Spend time in nature
People are wired to seek connection with nature, plants and animals, and have an inherent desire to spend time in natural environments. There are various studies suggesting that being in nature can have a positive effect on people’s mental health.
So, if you crave a bit of peace and quiet and want to get away from daily stressors, you should try to escape the concrete jungle every once in a while and immerse yourself in green spaces like parks and forests. Going on hiking adventures or camping trips is another great way to enjoy the health benefits of the great outdoors and instil a sense of tranquillity and peace in your life.
Look into medical cannabis
A growing body of research on the potential therapeutic effects of medical cannabis indicates that this once-controversial plant could be a powerful ally in reducing stress and anxiety. There’s also a lot of anecdotal evidence supporting cannabis’ potential as a wellness booster.
However, you should know that not all cannabis is created equal. Selective breeding has produced a variety of strains with different combinations of cannabinoid and terpene profiles, that determine what effects they have on the body. For example, the white widow strain is known for inducing a state of recreational euphoria which could help with mild stress and anxiety. Therefore, you should do adequate research on cannabis products and their properties and obviously consult with your physician before deciding if medical cannabis is a good option for you.
Prioritize better sleep
When you’re feeling stressed out and anxious, sleep tends to take the back seat. However, getting enough sleep is crucial to keep your mind and body healthy and ward off stress and anxiety symptoms. And no, you can’t trick your body into sleeping less or recover lost sleep, so you have to make sure you get the rest you need every night.
If you’re having trouble falling asleep, you might want to create a nighttime routine to help you unwind before you get to bed. Taking a hot bath, listening to soothing music and creating a relaxing environment in your bedroom can help in this respect. Putting your smart devices away and limiting caffeine intake throughout the day can also make a positive difference.
Eat a balanced diet
What you put on your plate affects not only your physical health but also your mood and mental well-being. Scientific research has revealed that people who consume larger quantities of processed foods and added sugars have a higher risk of experiencing stress and other mental health issues.
That’s why you should be more mindful about what you eat and try to create a more balanced diet. As a rule of thumb, you should avoid consuming ultra-processed foods and prioritize whole foods that are rich in nutrients and vitamins. This will help your body stay strong and healthy and become more resilient to stress.
Meditate
Meditation is a practice that’s been used by people for thousands of years to manage their emotions and improve overall well-being. And yet, a lot of people are puzzled when it comes to mediation techniques and their benefits on the mind and body.
There are various forms of meditation that you can try, but if you’re a beginner, guided meditation might be the best place to start. Including short meditation sessions in your daily routine can calm the stream of spiraling thoughts that run through your mind and help you enter a state of deep relaxation.
There are numerous other natural remedies that can prove beneficial in lowering stress levels and keeping anxiety at bay, so you have plenty of options to consider if conventional treatments don’t work for you or if you would like to try something different.
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