We all experience moments of anxiety, often caused by stressful events such as exams and medical tests. Â However, some people have to deal with anxiety more regularly. It can become a constant problem which is difficult to control and has an impact on everyday life.
Sadly the coronavirus pandemic added to the worries we all experience on a day to day basis. Many of the usual support networks people relied on were not available so many needed to look at other ways to ease feelings of anxiety. Despite life returning to a more normal routine, many people have not been able to cast off these anxious feelings.
If you’re struggling to cope with anxiety, try some of these natural remedies.
Remedies for Anxiety
Chamomile
Chamomile is known for its soothing effect, as it contains two chemicals, called apigenin and luteolin, which promote relaxation. Try having a cup of chamomile tea when you need help calming down. Alternatively, you can even take chamomile supplements, which some studies have linked to a significant decrease in anxiety when taken by patients with generalised anxiety disorder (GAD).
Green Tea
Chamomile tea isn’t the only soothing tea on the market – green tea can have a very similar effect. It contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which studies suggest may lower your heart rate and blood pressure, as well as reducing anxiety.
Valerian
If anxiety is keeping you up at night, valerian might be just the natural remedy you need. Valerian is a herbal supplement with contains sedative compounds, so is often helpful for those with insomnia and similar sleep problems. Many dislike the smell of valerian, so you may prefer to take it as a capsule rather than as a tea. It will calm you down and make sure you get some beneficial rest.
Hops
You’re likely to recognise hops as something you’ll find in beer, but drinking beer isn’t the way to relieve symptoms of anxiety. Taking hops extract however, will allow you to reap the relaxing benefits, and will also help you to get a good night’s sleep, like valerian. In fact, hops and valerian are often taken together to maximise these effects.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm has been used to relieve stress and anxiety since the Middle Ages. Some research has shown that taking a specific lemon balm product, called Cyracos, reduces symptoms in people with anxiety disorders, including nervousness and edginess. It’s often used in combination with some of the previously mentioned supplements, such as hops and chamomile.
Lavender
Many find the smell of lavender very soothing. Try using lavender oil to infuse your living room or bedroom with a calming scent to reduce your anxiety. Some studies have also found lavender oil to reduce anxiety when taken orally over a period of several weeks.
Omega-3s
Omega-3s aren’t just good for the heart – they’re great for the brain too. Try incorporating plenty of fish into your diet – particularly oily, cold-water fish such as salmon, which are especially rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have shown that omega-3s can help with all kinds of mood problems, because they seem to generally boost your brain functioning and mood.
Exercise
Exercise is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce anxiety, both immediately and in the long term. When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins, which some like to refer to as happy hormones.
This effect triggers a positive feeling in the body which will really help to ward off your anxiety and generally lift your mood. Exercise will, of course, offer you lots of other health benefits too, so try to make it a regular part of your routine.
Breathing Exercises
Practising breathing exercises in a quiet place can be very relaxing. Sit in a comfortable chair which supports your head or lie on a bed, and focus on your breathing. Breathe in and out slowly, in a regular rhythm, gently filling up the whole of your lungs. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Keep doing this until you feel calm.
Nature
Many studies have found that taking a walk in the countryside has a significant calming effect. Take a stroll amongst the greenery to lower stress levels and boost your mood. The peaceful setting and pleasant scenery will give you a much-needed break from whatever is causing your anxiety.
While it’s normal to occasionally feel anxious, your worries shouldn’t take over your life. In many instances, natural remedies can very effectively reduce or get rid of those nervous, fretful feelings.
However, if you’re finding it difficult to get your anxiety under control and it’s causing you distress, make sure you see your GP as soon as you possibly can to discuss your symptoms and worries.
If you would like to read more about how to reduce your anxiety and boost your happiness why not click on this link to our earlier article.
It is vital that you don’t suffer in silence, there are many ways to deal with worries, anxiety and depression, it’s often just a case of finding something which works for you.
You may like to visit the website of the mental health charity Mind for additional help and support.
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