7 natural remedies for anxiety
There are many solutions to calm your anxieties without resorting to medication. It is up to you to find the one that suits you best ...
Whether it's about money, family, health, or work, when anxious people start to worry, panic attacks are not far behind. Although a Canadian study has just established a link between anxiety and intelligence, you may be looking for a natural solution to calm your episodes of stress. Here are some ideas to avoid going through the medicine box:
Chamomile and green tea
Chamomile infusions are said to have the same effect on the brain as valium, blocking certain receptors. If you feel anxiety increasing, make a cup of chamomile or take a few drops of the essential oil. Guaranteed calming effect. The same goes for green tea, which has the ability to lower your heart rate and lower your blood pressure.
Physical exercise
Nothing could be more fun than a good workout when you're nervous. Physical activity has an antidepressant and anxiolytic effect that can boost your morale and combat the dark thoughts running through your head. Regular exercise will also increase your self-esteem and well-being. This will give you one less reason for stress.
Lavender
Several studies, cited by the American site Health, have shown the relaxing effect of lavender. This powerful "emotional anti-inflammatory" is used in waiting rooms or offered to students before exams to reduce their anxiety levels. But be careful not to overdo it, lavender extract is very potent and too much can cloud your mind, says the site.
Breathing
Some breathing exercises can calm you down quickly. Empty your lungs completely on a slow exhale, then inhale for a count of four, hold your breath for a count of seven, and exhale again for a count of eight. This technique is effective because you cannot breathe deeply and be anxious at the same time.
Breakfast
People with anxiety tend to skip meals, notes the Health site, especially breakfast. A bad habit that causes low choline levels and increased anxiety. Instead of skipping that meal, choose foods rich in protein, like eggs, to help you feel fuller.
Temperature
Surely you have noticed: the cold tends to accentuate your muscle tension. To limit anxiety, choose an environment warm enough to relax your body. A sauna, a hot bath, a tea: all means are good to raise the temperature a few degrees and increase your well-being.
Meditation
More and more studies have looked at the antidepressant effect of meditation. Its calming properties are particularly helpful for people with anxiety. By spending a few minutes a day simply being aware of the present moment, you leave less room for everyday anxieties.