How to Combat Stress Naturally

Life. Life can be awesome, amazing, joyous, daunting, and sometimes, just downright stressful. So when life gets a little too life-ish to deal with (read: stressful), then it’s great to have a number of all-natural stress fighting backups on hand. Not only does my list of natural remedies below help with stress, many of them also help with sleep, which seems to up and disappear for a lot of us when we are stressed. These awesome insomnia-fighters and stress-busters are absolute must-haves. Bookmark this page so the next time you feel like you might just lose your shiz, you can come back here and do a quick review šŸ˜‰ I may or may not employ a number of these different remedies on a daily basis.

LAVENDER
Lavender has been used for centuries to combat anxiety, depression, and upset stomach. Most often used in aromatherapy, if you’re having a hard day try dabbing some lavender essential oil on your wrists or temples. You can also purchase Ā that have dried lavender flowers in them which can be calming and help you sleep at night, or try a lavender sheet spray. Lavender is also found in capsules and teas like this awesome honey and lavender stress relief tea from Yogi, which helpsĀ combat generalized anxiety naturally without any addictive side effects or issues. Favorite lavender essential oil here.

CHAMOMILE
Used for centuries, chamomile is used for everything from upset stomachs to insomnia, and is completely safe and non-addictive. Stress and anxiety can definitely upset your stomach, so chamomile works a one-two punch by quelling anxiety and simultaneously relieving stomach aches. Sold in teas, ointments, tinctures and pills, it’s a definite must-have to keep in your toolbox of natural stress fighting remedies. This awesome essential oil “Peaceful Sleep” blend contains chamomile, lavender, and more to help you get your rest. This chamomile tea blend is my fav (and made in my hometown) with organic chamomile.

MELATONIN
Often insomnia and anxiety go hand in hand, so if you’re going through a stressful day/week/month then chances are your sleep is being effected as well. Instead of turning to over the counter sleep aids which can become addictive and mess with your sobriety, try some melatonin. Melatonin occurs naturally in your body, but taking it as a supplement can help regulate your sleep patterns and help you get your sleep back on track safely (fav supplement here). As we get older our bodies produce less and less melatonin, which means that supplements are an excellent way to reset our internal clock. As you know from my recent post on sleep, getting rest is incredibly important to your well being.

VALERIAN ROOT
Valerian root is great for those who have insomnia or difficulty sleeping and acts as a natural sleep aid. It s also used to treat depression, anxiety, headaches, migraines, hypochondria, and joint pain. Found in both capsules and teas, it’s an all-natural and sobriety-safe option. So, the next time that life has you stressed and you can’t shut off your brain at night, try some valerian root!

L-TRYPTOPHAN
That saying that Thanksgiving turkey makes you tired isn’t totally a myth. Found in poultry, milk, seeds, nuts, and legumes,Ā L-tryptophan is one of nine essential amino acids that helps your body produce serotonin, a chemical responsible for maintaining a proper sleep cycle. While L-tryptophan plays an important role in both healthy sleep and mood, as well as in the production of vitamin B3, or niacin, in the liver, your body cannot produce it. Ā Sold in capsules like here onesĀ here, concentrated L-tryptophan is an excellent way to reset your sleep cycle and get back into your groove!

PUPPY LOVE
Numerous studies have proven that playing with and owning an animal lowers blood pressure, decreases anxiety, raises levels of seratonin and dopamine, and decreases muscle tension. While I’m not suggesting you run out and get a puppy at the first hint of anxiety (that might very well add to the stress in your life), even having a fish can be relaxing and comforting when life is feeling too overwhelming.

EXERCISE
If you have been reading my articles then you already know that exercise is an amazing way to combat stress naturally. Being active helps you sleep, releases dopamine, and comes with a whole host of health-boosting benefits. Having a bad day? Go do some yoga, run, or spin. I promise you will feel better.

HOT BATHS
Hot baths help to relax tense muscles, relieve tension headaches, and give you a great excuse to set down the phone, close the door, and tune out the world for a bit. Add some epsom salts for sore muscles, or a lavender bath bomb for extra calming.

Always remember that with any supplements it’s best to consult your physician before starting anything new to ensure that no medications you take could have negative side effects when combined with herbs.