Natural remedies can control anxiety.
Anxiety disorders plague millions of Americans. Anxiety is more than just being stressed and frightened, it can sometimes lead to panic attacks. There are scores of antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications on the market that work well for some people, however, for many suffering from anxiety, natural remedies and simple lifestyle changes are often able to take the place of medication. Read on for advice on use natural remedies to prevent anxiety and panic attacks.
Instructions
1. Avoid excessive use of alcohol. If you are subject to severe panic attacks, avoid drinking altogether. Alcohol is a depressant and depletes the body of its natural tranquilizers, mainly B vitamins and magnesium. B vitamins and magnesium are essential in keeping your nerves healthy.
2. Avoid smoking. Smoking causes your lungs to work harder than normal and increases your heart rate, which, for many people, can cause unwanted stress that can lead to anxiety attacks. If you can't quit smoking on your own, inquire about a natural program to help you stop.
3. Avoid anxiety triggers in your diet. MSG, caffeinated beverages, fast foods rich in salt, saturated fat, certain cola drinks, meats rich in preservatives and sugar are all contributors to anxiety. Replace these food with natural, whole foods and herbs.
4. Replace trigger foods with foods that are known to calm the body and mind. These foods should be eaten throughout the day. While they digest, they will calm the body as it winds down and the evening approaches. Many panic attacks and feelings of anxiety occur at night. Brown rice, potatoes, natural yogurt, oatmeal, organic meat, soy, steamed vegetables and goat's milk are wonderful foods that contain calming qualities. Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C also help prevent anxiety.
5. Drink at least 4 to 6 glasses of water per day. Episodes of anxiety can be triggered when your body is not properly hydrated. Drinking water will flush toxins that contribute to stress, anxiety and panic attacks from your body.
6. Drink a cup of caffeine-free chamomile tea before bed. Chamomile is an herb that calms the nerves. It also helps relieve headaches, constipation and diarrhea.
7. Take a B-complex vitamin with your first meal. 100 mg is recommended.
8. Consider herbal calmers. Natural herbs often work immediately if you are having symptoms of anxiety. Kava kava, valerian root extract and ashwagandha, to name a few, are sold in capsules and often bring relief from anxiety within minutes. Herbal supplements can be taken daily, however some contain side effects. Consult with your doctor, nutritionist or health food store professional for specific advice.
9. Stretch every morning before beginning your day. Proper stretching will help your body prepare itself for the upcoming day, which may contain stressful events. Stretching each morning will oxygenate your body and prevent chemicals that cause anxiety from being released too quickly during hormone secretions.
10. Begin a daily exercise program. This may include a gym membership, yoga, cycling or simply taking a daily walk. It is recommended that you exercise before your first meal of the day, or between meals on an empty stomach.
11. Reserve time each day to relax. Free yourself from distractions. A long bath, massage or meditating session can all work wonders to keep your body and mind properly charged.
12. Perform a deep breathing exercise each night before going to bed or during periods of anxiety. Simply deeply inhale through your nose, hold it for 3 to 5 seconds and exhale slowly, counting to three. Repeat five times.
Tags: panic attacks, your body, anxiety panic, anxiety panic attacks, body mind, calm body, first meal