Natural Ways To Soothe Anxiety

Did you know that one in three women will experience anxiety at one point in their life? It’s a prevalent issue worldwide, and it’s time to talk about it!

Anxiety and stress are normal responses to what’s going on around you, you’ve probably heard the term ‘you’re a product of your environment’ and it’s an absolute truth.

When you experience feelings of anxiety or continued stress, it impacts your life, which in turn impacts your health! Both mentally and physically.

Anxiety is an ongoing feeling of stress or worry, going far beyond the event that may have triggered these feelings. It can be debilitating, and if you suffer from these prolonged symptoms, you may have an anxiety disorder.

• Excessive worrying

• Restlessness

• Avoiding social situations

• No longer wanting to do things you normally enjoy

• Easily agitated

• Fatigue

• Difficulty concentrating

• Irrational fears

• Trouble falling or staying asleep

• Panic attacks

Mental illnesses differ greatly from physical, and there is no magic cure. There are, however, natural ways that have been proven to reduce anxiety and stress.

Your diet affects more than your body — it affects the way you think and feel. Although we love a sugary sweet treat, consuming too many of these foods can increase feelings of anxiety and stress. Researchers at Harvard have shown that processed sugars increase the symptoms of anxiety by causing spikes and drops in your blood glucose levels. This, in turn, can negatively impact your mood and energy levels.

Reach for natural foods like vegetables, high-quality meat, and whole grains to mitigate and reduce anxiety and stress.

Exercise is proven to lower your body’s stress hormone levels and release endorphins that improve mood. It has also been shown to increase your self-perception and confidence! Which in turn will help improve your mental wellbeing.

Simple, repetitive exercises such as jogging and even walking have been shown to lower stress levels. 

Although on stressful days it can be common to have a drink to ‘take the edge off’, excessive alcohol use is strongly linked to anxiety. Alcohol disrupts your brain chemistry, and although you might get that initial relief of inhibition, it’ll later heighten feelings of anxiety and stress.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.