Manage Stress Naturally

Your body can experience stress from environmental conditions such as toxins in the water and air pollution. Nutrient deficiencies can also stress your body. And finally, there is the emotional and physical stress caused by things like finances, difficult relationships, lack of sleep, moving, etc. Uncontrolled stress that occurs for longer than 6 months is considered “chronic.” It can be dangerous and is capable of increasing your risk for heart disease, diabetes, weight gain, mental disorders, digestive disorders, and other illnesses. Here are some ways you can help your body manage stress naturally.

Acupuncture

In ancient Chinese medicine, the energy called Qi is thought to control the overall health of the body. Qi moves through pathways in the body called meridians. If Qi’s flow is disturbed or blocked in any way, it can cause physical and emotional problems. The practice of acupuncture involves inserting needles at specific locations to restore Qi’s balance. Acupuncture can help with many stress-related conditions because it can help stabilize the nervous system. A study at Georgetown University showed that acupuncture actually slows the body’s production of stress hormones, and that it has a protective effect against the body’s response to stress.

Meditation/Prayer

Meditation and prayer have been used for thousands of years to improve well-being, but today they’re actually backed up by science as well. Both are simple and inexpensive, and they don't require any special equipment, unless you want music in the background. You can practice either wherever you are. Whether you're out for a walk, waiting for an appointment, or in line at the store. The goal is to focus your attention on something other than the thoughts that are causing stress. Prayer and/or meditation can give you a sense of calm and balance that can help both your emotional well-being and your overall health.

Breath Work

Breathing exercises can help you relax, because they make your body feel like it does when you are relaxed. Deep breathing is one of the best ways to lower stress in the body. This is because when you breathe deeply, it sends a message to your brain to calm down and relax. It takes you out of fight or flight and activates the parasympathetic nervous system. It can also help shift your brainwaves so that negative thought patterns are reduced, along with stress and depression levels. Another benefit of breath work is that it improves oxygen capacity in the blood which leads to overall improved energy levels and stronger stamina.

Adaptogens

Adaptogenic herbs are are a unique class of healing plants that balance, restore and protect the body. They help make it easier to handle stress by balancing hormones and physiological functions. Some can boost immunity and some have the potential to help indirectly with other health issues, like pain, digestive concerns, insomnia, and more. You can use adaptogens for a few days or weeks to get through a busy time. Or take them for a longer stretch of time when you know you are going to be stressed. The most common herbs are ashwaganda, American and Siberian ginseng, astragalus, rhodiola, and tulsi - also known as Holy basil.

Exercise

Exercise is one of the best strategies for combating stress and staying healthy. Exercising regularly can have a positive effect on your mood by relieving tension, anxiety, anger, and mild depression. It can also improve the quality of your sleep, which can be negatively impacted by stress, depression, and anxiety. And the good news, is that exercise in this situation just means movement. Walking, stretching, yoga, dance, swimming, biking, gardening, etc. The important thing is to do something you like so that the experience is enjoyable.

Did this help you? If so, I'd greatly appreciate it if you commented and/or share it on social media.