Dealing with Stress Naturally

External stress, such as family demands, job commitments, time pressures, money restrictions put this process into action, but the type of food and drink we consume can also contribute.

When subjected to this type of response too often it can result in those all too familiar feelings of being on edge and nervous. As a further consequence we begin to experience fatigue, on a physical, mental and emotional level.

To Relax, Try Exercise and Yoga

Exercise is one of the best antidotes to stress. Exercise and stress management are closely linked. Life’s annoyances and frustrating situations build up, resulting in feeling stressed. Exercise is an effective stress reliever, providing a release of negative emotions, turning these otherwise potentially unhealthy feelings into motivation for increased health and well-being.

Exercise can decrease stress hormones like cortisol and increase endorphins, the body's feel-good chemicals, giving the mood a natural boost.

Yoga is a great and easy way to relax; it doesn’t take long and can be done at home. This can be accompanied by regular practise of a breathing exercise called Hara, which encourages a more relaxed state. Simply lie on the floor on your back and place the right hand about half an inch beneath the navel with the other hand gently over it. Breathe in slowly through the nose and let the tummy come out whilst keeping the ribcage still. Once the stomach is filled with air, purse the lips and slowly and breathe out through the mouth. At the same time, push the tummy in gently with the hands. This can be performed as often as needed, and eventually it will become as natural as it should be.

Promoting Sleep with Natural Remedies

Lemon balm tea will soothe and relax a fraught nervous system and leave the body better able to deal with the demands of the day, making it easier to wind down at night. Chamomile tea before bedtime is an excellent herbal drink to aid relaxation and promote restful sleep. If insomnia is a problem, a drop of lavender oil onto the pillow and/or 30 drops into the bath can also help.

Sleep patterns are often broken over a long period of time. The herbal remedy valeriana with hops can resolve sleeplessness without being addictive or causing that "hung over" feeling in the morning. It can promote the ability to fall asleep as well as improving sleep quality.

Reduce Stress with Oats

Avena Sativa is a nerve tonic made from fresh oat seeds and contains the B vitamins, calcium and magnesium that the central nervous system needs in order to thrive. It is useful when feeling anxious or on edge. Ongoing stress and tension can be alleviated with the remedy, which can also be used to benefit those with addictions. The herb can be used to help with the symptoms of withdrawal from nicotine, alcohol and narcotic drugs.

The nervous system can become debilitated and fatigued by stress. Natural remedies can play a useful role, strengthening, feeding and revitalising the entire body.