Published: 09/26/2013 - Updated: 11/26/2016
Author: Miriam Reyes5 Comments
There are certain situations when feeling anxious is normal, however, if you are tense day after day, for more than six months continuously, then you're probably part of the millions of people around the world who suffer from chronic anxiety.
Today there are some medications to control this condition, as their effect is calming and releases doses of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) which is a neurotransmitter that promotes a good mood and reduces anxiety, however these medications may be accompanied by some side effects such as dizziness, forgetfulness and drowsiness, among others.
Since having these side-effects is a risk that many people do not want to take, it is interesting to consider natural alternatives before using medication.
1. Useful Herbal Remedies for anxiety
Some plants may be useful for treating anxiety, among which we can mention the following:
The root of cava: This medicinal plant's roots or rhizomes are used to promote calm and relaxation. Several studies have identified this as a plant with anxiolytic properties, however, it is not recommended for people who have any kind of liver problems.
Passionflower: Traditionally used to relieve anxiety and treat insomnia mostly related to nervousness, passionflower can be consumed as infusions, extracts or tablets which help control anxiety levels naturally.
Valerian: Another confirmed plant with anxiolytic properties, it is recommended to take valerian as a supplement to cope with nervousness. Its soothing effect is often used to treat insomnia as well and normally it is the roots of the plant which are used. Depending on the individual, valerian may or may not be effective in treating anxiety problems.
It is recommended that before taking any of these supplements or alternatives you see a doctor and above all, avoid excessive consumption.
2. Yoga practice
When it comes to anxiety remedies, yoga is an excellent choice. It is estimated that a one hour session of these exercises can be as effective as anxiety medication to control anxiety without the side effects they cause. During yoga exercises, correct breathing is also practiced, which induces a state of relaxation.
Yoga is even more relaxing than walking. Choose a yoga method that best suits your needs and your taste, because it is important that you feel comfortable and enjoy it while you do it. To extend its benefits, yoga should be practiced at least once a week.
3. Consuming fish
According to studies, people who experience chronic anxiety often have low omega-3 levels, so it is suggested that supplementing your diet with these types of fatty acids may also help to alleviate some of the symptoms which are produced by having anxiety.
Oily fish is a rich source of these healthy fatty acids, so it is recommended to include it in your diet. Some examples are salmon and sardines. You can also find omega -3 fatty acids in oilseeds, ground flaxseed, walnuts and almonds.
4. Drinking green tea
Green tea consumption is often recommended due to its antioxidant and slimming properties. However, it also contains an amino acid called L – theanine, which acts as a regulator of humour and therefore helps to combat anxiety.
If you enjoy the flavour, do not hesitate to drink a couple of cups a day. You can even enjoy it combined with another flavour such as orange, lemon, strawberry, or consuming it in a supplement.
Although green tea contains caffeine, L- theanine appears to inhibit its stimulating action, so green tea may be a good choice to aid in your relaxation.
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It is very hard to keep with the rhythm of these days especially when you work several hours a day, then you forget that you are a human and sometimes you just need to slow down your life and relax a little bit, maybe if it is not too late we can seriously rely on natural means to calm our nerves in a safe way.
My husband used to be a very angry person, he was always complaining about any little thing and all of my kids and myself were very upset because of this situation, then he decided to change and he opted for yoga, which has given him great results in his attitude, the change is very good and now I’m sure that he will better and better with the time
When I am feeling anxious what I do is exercise that really helps to make myself feel more relaxed.
I think, perhaps, the most important tool was left out, and that would be meditation. Meditation really gives you space to open up and take a look at those feelings, learn what’s causing them, and most importantly, how to deal with them and create space for living fresh moments free from anxiety. I took a mindfulness meditation class last year, and it has changed my life. Learning to meditate and observe the mind has been a real life saver.
Anxiety is a natural reaction to the fast and busy pace of life in 2016… As a result, many people are suffering from anxiety because they are stuck in a pattern or situation in their lives which they are not happy with. Some of the remedies suggested in this article are very helpful, but two important ones have been left out: Meditation (which helps A LOT) and Speaking with a friend. However, every person will have an approach that helps them better than anything. It’s just a case of finding WHICH approach works for you.