In today’s world, life seems to be more hectic than ever, leading to many people developing chronic anxiety and stress. Even if you aren’t a chronic sufferer, everyone experiences anxiety at some point in their lives; and it is a mental health issue that has only grown in recent years. Therefore, finding Organic Alternatives for Relaxation and Relief isn’t always easy; and it’s not always possible to switch off from the world even when you want to.
If not addressed, chronic stress can end up affecting your life, and particularly your health; and while it’s always recommended to speak to your doctor first; it’s also crucial to find organic techniques to help you find the relief you need. Read on and learn about 5 research-backed alternatives for relaxation.
Exercise
It’s a well-known fact that exercise isn’t only good for the body, but it’s also good for the mind. Exercising and generally being active releases endorphins and serotonin chemicals, famously known as the “happy hormones.”. These interact with your brain receptors, promoting feelings of happiness to leave you feeling more positive, and therefore relaxed.
A great stress buster; research has even suggested that it plays a significant role in reducing anxiety due to this influx of hormones. Not only does it improve your overall mood, but it can boost self-confidence, lower symptoms of depression; and aid sleep that is often disrupted as a result of stress. Exercise are best Organic Alternatives for Relaxation. While exercise isn’t an overnight miracle cure, adding frequent exercise to your weekly routine will help to alleviate any anxiety; and is effective when paired with other treatments.
2. CBD
CBD, or Cannabidiol, is made from the marijuana plant; however, it doesn’t contain the substance known as THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol; the chemical which creates the high for which cannabis is well known. CBD is becoming increasingly popular and is most commonly used to help alleviate anxiety; and aid relaxation, with preliminary research showing that it has the potential to become a treatment for anxiety disorders; including PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), social anxiety, and anxiety-induced insomnia. CBD products are also beat Organic Alternatives for Relaxation.
It is readily available for purchase without a prescription and can found in many natural and healthcare shops; as well as online and in certain pharmacies. There are also many other ways CBD can be consumed that aren’t just restricted to oil. These include topical CBD products such as creams, tinctures, edibles, vape pens and vaporizers, smoking, and pills and capsules. For more information regarding other CBD, variants to help with relaxation, click here.
3. Writing
The practice of journaling has become increasingly popular over the years to release built-up stress and emotions. Keeping track of thoughts and feelings can provide a cathartic way of releasing negative thoughts; feelings and help produce clarity about our lives and emotional situations that we might not realize otherwise.
Research has shown that journaling can help test-related anxiety in young adolescents; highlighting that those who wrote about their feelings on the day performed better. Journaling is also an excellent alternative for those with panic disorders and other medical conditions; allowing them to use a journal to write about their symptoms, struggles, and triumphs with their conditions.
It also has other health benefits that have been scientifically proven; such as decreasing asthma and arthritis symptoms, improving cognitive functioning, and strengthening the immune system.
4. Herbal teas and supplements
Herbal alternatives have been used for centuries, not only to treat medical conditions; but as substitutes for relaxation, stress relief, and treating mild anxiety symptoms. Also, Herbal teas such as chamomile soothe and calm the mind; with research showing that regular consumption can reduce the symptoms of general anxiety disorders while promoting better sleep quality.
Not only that, but it can also alter the levels of the stress hormone cortisol; while the ritual of making tea itself is soothing for many individuals. Valerian root is another herb that used to treat anxiety; and a 2011 study found that it helped reduce OCD symptoms; however, more research is still needed. It is important to note that the FDA does not monitor herbal supplements; its always recommended that you speak to your local doctor or mental health professional first before consuming any supplements.
5. Acupuncture
The thought of having needles in your body doesn’t exactly sound relaxing; but acupuncture is another alternative therapy to treat various conditions, including both physical and mental. Having originated in China and used for centuries; the practice involves the insertion of a number of fine needles to stimulate the nerves under the skin in the targeted area.
These then send a message to the brain instructing it to release the natural painkiller; endorphins, while reducing levels of the stress chemical cortisol. Consequently, this release of endorphins leads to feelings of relaxation, with studies showing that acupuncture reduces stress over time.
Wrapping up
Unfortunately, stress is an inevitable part of our lives – but that doesn’t mean you have to fall prey to it. From endorphin boosting exercise, cathartic writing, and anxiety and stress alleviating CBD products; you can arm yourself with organic and natural alternatives for effective relaxation and relief. Try out several to find the ones that work best for you; or use them in combination to curate your own relaxation routine for those days when life gets overwhelming.