4 Natural Remedies to Destress Your Holiday Season

Holidays can be a particularly stressful time. This is especially true for parents who need to balance work and bills with shopping and buying presents.

Despite the holiday madness, it’s important to take a breath and find the time to relax. Keeping stress at bay is essential for a healthy mind and body.

Use Alternative Medicine to Reduce Anxiety

Scientists are still trying to unravel the mysterious link between the mind and body. The truth is that stress can manifest itself into physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, fast breathing and nausea. Fortunately, Health.com reports that there are safe remedies to reduce anxiety naturally. Here are four alternative medicines that you can use as stress relievers during the holiday season:

1. Chamomile

Chamomile is known for its relaxing properties. Certain compounds in the plant, such as matricaria recutita, affect the nerves in the same way as drugs like Valium. They stimulate the same brain receptors.

Chamomile is available as a supplement, tea or flower. Scientific studies have shown that patients suffering from generalized anxiety disorders (GAD) have markedly reduced anxiety symptoms after eight weeks of chamomile ingestion.

2. L-theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid in green tea. In Japan, it is a popular means of instilling tranquility while remaining relaxed and alert. Research has proven that L-theanine can curb rising blood pressure and heart rate.

In one particular study, anxiety patients received 200 milligrams of L-theanine, which enhanced calmness and focus. While green tea offers access to enough of this amino acid, you will need to consume many cups to have the same effect as a supplement.

3. Valerian

Valerian is an herbal supplement that will reduce anxiety and make you very tired. It is popular as an alternative medicine for insomnia, and it offers strong sedative properties.

In fact, the German government has approved Valerian as an effective treatment for sleep disorders. It smells and tastes horrid, which is why people consume it in tinctures or capsules.

Do not take Valerian before work, or you will likely fall asleep. Hops, lemon balm and chamomile are often combined with valerian for optimal effect.

4. Exercise

Exercise is the most natural therapy for stress relief — and it works. It is a powerful antidote to fight anxiety and depression, and it offers immediate results.

Exercise forces the body to release endorphins, which are hormones that elevate the mood. These are nature’s own stress relievers, making you feel more confident and healthier.

Anxiety can be debilitating for some people, yet taking drugs often triggers alternative problems or makes the condition worse over time. Relieving stress naturally is the best way to overcome these disorders.

For millions of Americans, stress is simply a part of the holiday season. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to elevate your mood. The four natural therapies listed in this article can help you battle the winter blues and instill a more positive outlook.

http://todayspulse.org/category/alternative-natural-medicine/