Most people experience some levels of stress and anxiety in their life. There are some very simple ways to help reduce or eliminate these symptoms.
Here are 7 ways to reduce feelings of anxiety and feel more relaxation in your life:
1. Drink plenty of water to make sure you stay hydrated and make sure you are eating the right foods. This includes foods rich in B vitamins such as meats, salmon, legumes, oranges, nuts and greens. Remember that caffeine, alcohol and sugar aggravates symptoms.
2. Using herbs such as chamomile in a tea can help you to feel more relaxed. Valerian, nettle and kava are also popular herbs used for relaxation. Just be sure to check with your doctor first before taking anything new.
3. Massage is an excellent way to de-stress. If this is too pricey you could always opt for a quickie massage for 10-20 minutes.
4. Exercise and stretching are very important for your health. Don't underestimate the importance of getting physical activity daily, even if its a short walk. Yoga, tai chi and stretching are very helpful for anxiety and also help with sleep.
5. Mindfulness techniques such as self-hypnosis, progressive relaxation or simply listening to some slow music can be very soothing.
6. Lavender helps promote relaxation. You could get an essential oil and put a drop on your temples to relax. You could also buy loose lavender and make a sachet for your pillow to help create a more serene environment at home.
7. Breathe. Sometimes all you need is to remind yourself to breathe, count to 10 and to tell yourself that you will be okay.
If your symptoms do not improve and are severe you should see your health care provider. Feel free to contact me for further ideas or more information on anxiety.
Jennifer Colton, LMHC, CASAC-T
917-746-6423
Here are 7 ways to reduce feelings of anxiety and feel more relaxation in your life:
1. Drink plenty of water to make sure you stay hydrated and make sure you are eating the right foods. This includes foods rich in B vitamins such as meats, salmon, legumes, oranges, nuts and greens. Remember that caffeine, alcohol and sugar aggravates symptoms.
2. Using herbs such as chamomile in a tea can help you to feel more relaxed. Valerian, nettle and kava are also popular herbs used for relaxation. Just be sure to check with your doctor first before taking anything new.
3. Massage is an excellent way to de-stress. If this is too pricey you could always opt for a quickie massage for 10-20 minutes.
4. Exercise and stretching are very important for your health. Don't underestimate the importance of getting physical activity daily, even if its a short walk. Yoga, tai chi and stretching are very helpful for anxiety and also help with sleep.
5. Mindfulness techniques such as self-hypnosis, progressive relaxation or simply listening to some slow music can be very soothing.
6. Lavender helps promote relaxation. You could get an essential oil and put a drop on your temples to relax. You could also buy loose lavender and make a sachet for your pillow to help create a more serene environment at home.
7. Breathe. Sometimes all you need is to remind yourself to breathe, count to 10 and to tell yourself that you will be okay.
If your symptoms do not improve and are severe you should see your health care provider. Feel free to contact me for further ideas or more information on anxiety.
Jennifer Colton, LMHC, CASAC-T
917-746-6423