Natural Remedies for Anxiety

In a world full of deadlines, it’s no wonder why more than 19 million American adults suffer from anxiety at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, many of them turn to prescription drugs, unaware that there are natural remedies with fewer to no side-effects. Why? Because natural remedies are not widely advertised by mass media. Suffers of anxiety must either be referred to alternative methods by friends, family, and doctors, or conduct their own research. With so much information out there- and no clear place to start- the idea in itself can be overwhelming. Nevertheless, the more one knows about the condition, the more empowered he or she will be to combat it. Fortunately, there are a number of natural remedies that can lessen the effects of anxiety.

By far the simplest and most efficient way to combat anxiety is through breathing exercises. Learning to control and deepen the breath helps to calm and slow the mind. For this reason, yoga is highly recommended. In yoga, the combination of breathing practices, gentle movements, meditation, and relaxation are designed to harmonize the functioning of the physical body and nervous system. Additionally, two studies conducted in 2003 provide evidence that physical activity can help reduce anxiety. Researches at Columbia University found that the mental health of the study patients improved with their level of physical activity, lowering the occurrence of anxiety, panic attacks, and certain phobias. Furthermore, in a study of twenty four women, conducted at the University of Missouri-Columbia, researchers found that moderate to high-intensity exercise provided the greatest relief over the one and a half hours following exercise.

In addition to physical activity, anxiousness can be soothed with herbal teas. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is a citrus-fresh herb, used to tame tension, nervousness, and a mild case of the blues. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or currently taking medication to treat anxiety, depression, or thyroid problems, consult with your healthcare practitioner before taking this herb. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a mild, relaxing tea, containing oils that relax the muscles in the stomach. Herbalists also recommend Passionflower for its gentle sedating qualities and treatment of insomnia, especially when sleep is disturbed by anxiety. Relax with a cup before bedtime to help you feel sleepy.

Before bedtime- or anytime- aromatherapy is another way to relieve anxiety. Essential oils are highly effective for the treatment of stress and the encouragement of relaxation. Orange blossom, rose, chamomile, and lavender are known for their calming effects. Patchouli helps eliminate anxiety and lifts the mood, while sandalwood and nutmeg help shrug off the effects of stress. Of these oils, lavender is probably the most useful for relaxation, as it also eases aches and pains, such as headaches. The most effective methods for using essential oils to relax the body and mind include: vaporization, massage, and baths. Sprinkle a few drops on a tissue and inhale deeply to counter sudden stress. Make a massage oil using ten drops of the essential oil to one ounce of carrier oil, such as almond or olive, or add six drops to a hot bath.

Nature is full of remedies to calm what ails you, and the body always knows what it needs. These are just a few of the ways that anxiety can be relieved naturally. Consider this article as a place to start. Take some time, tune into yourself, and discover which methods work best for you. Although we cannot slow the pace of life, we can slow down our minds, allowing ourselves to handle the pressures of daily life with greater ease and clarity. So, relax. Draw a hot bath. Sip some tea. Take the stairs, and remember: just breathe.