Anxiety Reduction Remedies

Have you ever heard that running makes you feel good? It’s not just because of the physical health benefits, but the mental ones as well. Vigorous exercise releases endorphins, those feel-good hormones which provide a natural and emotional high within our brains. So, when you’re anxious, get moving!

In addition to releasing those “happy” chemicals, getting active provides a release for the worried mind because it distracts you. Your muscles naturally stop tensing up, and your mind has something else to focus on, like breathing, heart rate or the tunes in your earbuds. Other awesome workouts: bike riding and yoga.

Ah, the sweet smell of relaxation. Aromatherapy uses the ol’ sniffer (aka your nose) to provide a sense of calm. Essential oils are hugely popular right now, and can be used in different ways to produce calming effects. The natural oils from various plants are known to reduce heart rate and blood pressure as well as providing other unique benefits when inhaled directly or through oil diffusers. Popular options: bergamot, sage and lavender. If pure essential oils aren’t for you, pick up a body wash infused with the same aromatics and wash your worry away in the shower.

When anxiety creeps in, it’s hard to go to sleep. You’re thinking of what you did today, and what you’ll do tomorrow. You need sleep to function! If that aromatherapy idea sounded good, one additional perk is that oils like lavender promote restful sleep. Natural supplements are also viable options. Melatonin, for instance, helps to regulate your sleep/wake cycle. It may help reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and packs a few antioxidant benefits as well.

Of course, to really improve your quality of sleep, a relaxing routine is essential. Lower the lights, turn off the TV and set the tone for a calm night of shut eye. It works wonders to establish a regular sleep schedule (i.e. when you turn in and wake up each day), as well as to make the bedroom a tranquil place which is cool, dark and lacking in distractions. Without the burden of dragging from fatigue all day, you’ll be free to be your best self.

Overcoming anxiety is a process of trial and error to find what works for you. Small lifestyle changes, like exercise and regular sleep, can make a world of difference, too. Sometimes you just need to get out of your own head. When you want to zone out and enter a state of zen, massage is a tried-and-true strategy. Book an aromatherapy or hot stone massage with us and experience the benefits of total body relaxation.