What is the Holistic Remedy for Anxiety? 5 Options
Anxiety is the invisible ghost that haunts our minds, filling our thoughts with worry and fear. But what if there was a way to calm this spectral invader? Holistic remedies offer an all-natural, comprehensive approach to anxiety, addressing not just the symptoms but the root cause. But what is the holistic remedy for anxiety that can help bring peace back to our minds?
In this article, we will explore 5 holistic anxiety remedies that can relieve tension and fear. Note that most of these are natural remedies without side effects.
1. Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is a form of meditation that encourages individuals to focus on their present moment. Rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, it instructs you to live in the now. It is a practice born from Buddhist traditions but has been secularized and adapted for modern usage.
By directing your attention to the present moment, mindfulness meditation promotes a state of tranquility and awareness that can help alleviate anxiety. When you’re mindful, you observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment, leading to self-acceptance and peace.
Mindfulness meditation is often associated with focusing on the breath, helping to anchor the mind in the present moment.
To give you a practical example, imagine you are feeling anxious about an upcoming work presentation. Instead of getting caught up in your worries, you practice a 10-minute mindfulness meditation, focusing on the sensation of your breath. As you do this, you may notice anxiety-related thoughts (“What if I mess up?”, “Will they like my presentation?”), but you don’t get lost in them. Instead, you remain focused on the present moment and your breath, allowing the anxiety to pass.
2. Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries as natural medicines to treat a variety of physical and mental ailments, including anxiety. Many of these remedies are steeped in traditional and cultural practices, offering holistic healing for the body-mind.
Herbal remedies like Ashwagandha, scientifically known as Withania somnifera, promise a natural and holistic approach to managing anxiety. Classified as an “adaptogen,” Ashwagandha plays a remarkable role in moderating systems and hormones responsible for our stress response. With its roots deeply grounded in traditional Indian, or Ayurvedic, medicine, Ashwagandha has been utilized for centuries to promote relaxation and psychological balance.
A 2019 study investigated the impacts of Ashwagandha on 58 participants grappling with perceived stress. Administering either 250 milligrams (mg) per day, 600 mg per day of Ashwagandha extract, or a placebo, the study found compelling results. Participants who consumed Ashwagandha had lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) than those in the placebo group, and they notably experienced enhanced sleep quality.
The group that ingested 600 mg of Ashwagandha reported a significant reduction in stress levels, providing empirical evidence of Ashwagandha’s anti-anxiety properties. However, it’s worth noting that the group taking the lower dose of Ashwagandha did not report a similar reduction, implying a dose-dependent effect.
For a detailed guide on herbal remedies, be sure to check out our Natural Holistic Remedies Certification Course. The course provides the opportunity to learn more about natural remedies and some of the best holistic approaches to managing stress, anxiety, and more!
3. Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts, known as essential oils, to support health and well-being. The power of aromatherapy lies in the olfactory system (our sense of smell) which is directly connected to the brain’s emotional control center, the limbic system. This makes aromatherapy especially useful for managing emotional states, including anxiety.
The process is quite straightforward. Essential oils, extracted from various parts of plants, carry distinct therapeutic scents or “aromas.” These aromas can stimulate the brain to trigger a reaction, altering mood and promoting overall health.
While there are various methods to use essential oils, a few common ones include using a diffuser, applying a few drops to a lava bead bracelet, or mixing a preferred scent with a carrier oil for topical application on your wrist or neck. Aromatherapy diffusers typically use heat, fan, or ultrasonic technology to disseminate the essential oil aroma throughout a room. A lava bead bracelet carries the added advantage of portable aromatherapy, offering its soothing effects wherever you go.
Several essential oils are known for their anxiety-reducing properties. Lavender, for instance, is renowned for its relaxing and calming effects. Ylang Ylang helps reduce stress and negative emotions, while Grapefruit is known for its uplifting and soothing properties. Clary Sage is a natural sedative, and Bergamot is often used to elevate mood and alleviate stress.
But remember that while essential oils can relieve anxiety, their effects may vary depending on the individual and the quality and concentration of the oils used. Always opt for high-quality, pure essential oils and use them responsibly for the best therapeutic results.
4. Exercise
Exercise is a holistic remedy for anxiety because it addresses the issue at multiple levels – the mind, body, and spirit. Scientifically speaking, physical activity stimulates the production of endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters.
Engaging in regular exercise can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety. It diverts your mind from the cycle of negative thoughts that feed anxiety and depression. The experience of successfully meeting a physical challenge, such as completing a fitness routine, also boosts confidence and gives a sense of accomplishment.
Different exercises can cater to different individuals, and the key is in finding an activity you enjoy. Females might find cardiovascular activities like running, dancing, or group aerobics classes to be empowering. These not only provide physical benefits but also foster a sense of community.
On the other hand, males might prefer strength training activities such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises. These activities build physical strength and resilience, which can often be mirrored in mental fortitude.
For older adults, lighter forms of exercise like yoga and Tai Chi can be effective. These exercises promote balance, flexibility, and mindfulness, which can be especially beneficial for managing anxiety.
Remember, the goal is not to become a competitive athlete but to foster a healthy lifestyle that naturally alleviates anxiety. Even a light 30-minute walk in the park can work wonders for your mental health.
Anxiety may fade during exercise and for hours afterward. Regular exercise can also improve your sleep, which is often disrupted by anxiety, stress, and other mental health concerns.
5. CBD Oil
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil, especially those derived from hemp plants, has seen a surge in popularity as a natural remedy for various conditions, including anxiety. Derived from Cannabis Sativa plants, hemp-based CBD oil contains little to no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that typically causes the ‘high’ associated with marijuana. The THC content in hemp-derived CBD oil is usually less than 0.3%, ensuring that it doesn’t induce any mind-altering effects.
Numerous studies have highlighted CBD’s potential to alleviate symptoms of various ailments such as inflammation, pain, insomnia, and anxiety. Even though research is still developing, the findings suggest that CBD oil could be a promising alternative treatment for anxiety.
CBD oil is readily available in various forms in most mainstream stores. The options are numerous, each catering to different preferences and lifestyles. Among the popular choices are CBD oil tinctures, liquid drops that can be taken orally or added to food or drink. CBD gummies are another popular option, offering a convenient and tasty way to consume CBD.
So, these were some of the potential holistic remedies for anxiety. Remember that everyone’s condition is different, and no single solution works for everyone.
Let us know if you have any questions or queries; we’re here to help!
Good luck on your journey!
