Too Much Stress? Try These Natural Remedies
Too much work. Politics, both in the world and in the office. Relationships that take constant nurturing. And all the other demands of life. All that means most of us have at least a few bouts of being over-stressed from time to time.
Stress, of course, isn’t the natural state of your body. It can lead to all manner of complications and ailments, which can even ultimately end in death. So it’s not a good idea to let stress go on with no response to eliminate or at least reduce it. Hopefully, you’re not prone to handling stress with alcohol or drugs (legal or illegal) because both have their own brand of further negative consequences. That said, when there is too much stress in your life, what are some ways to respond to stress that are more healthy?Here’s some ideas to help in general, and some ways to handle typical stress-related symptoms.
Responding To Stress Naturally
When you’ve got too much stress, try these active responses:
- Meditate. No it’s not about chanting. It’s about centering and relaxing. It’s been proven to have tons of benefits. If you’re ready to get serious about it and want to know more, check out the book review we published recently about a truly awesome book full of great how-to tips.
- Yoga and exercise. Physical activity encourages your body to chemically counteract the negative chemistry related to stress. Run, walk, climb the stairs, just get some exercise.
- Pause. Rather than let your mind and body go into “fight or flight” mode when you encounter a stressful situation, remind yourself to stop and consider what’s going on. Evaluate your options and remember that this is just a relatively small point in time that will soon pass. You’ve got this.
- Connect with nature. A walk in the park or in the woods or even the desert can work wonders to re-center and calm yourself.
Responding To Stress-Related Symptoms
Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O., an Osteopathic Physician lists some ways that stress can affect your body and provides methods to manage it with herbal supplements and natural alternatives:
Symptom: Insomnia
Solution: Magnesium helps to relax the body while also easing anxiety. Melatonin supplements can help regulate sleep and wakefulness and Chamomile tea is great for relaxation and sleep.
Symptom: Low energy
Solution: Asian Ginseng, Vitamin B12 and Green Tea are all known to increase one’s energy levels.
Symptom: Stomach aches, Body aches and pain
Solution: Peppermint oil is good for stomach aches and occasional massages with essential oils and hot baths can sooth aches and pain induced by stress.
Symptom: Common cold and Infections
Solution: Echinacea and Astragalus, two herbs with immune-supporting properties, as well as Vitamin C and D can assist with common colds and other infections.
Too Much Stress? Take Charge!
Just as you would any other conditions that affect your well-being, you can and should take an active role in responding to stress. Whether it’s working controlling the stress or it’s common symptoms, you have choices that can make a huge difference in your health both short and long term.
