How to treat anxiety naturally

How to treat anxiety naturally

There are a couple different ways to treat anxiety using a holistic approach ( or naturally, without medication). The key word here is treat, because there are things that you can do to reduce anxiety that won’t necessarily treat it. The amount of anxiety you are experiencing also matters as well as how you want to go about it.

Therapy is helpful for treating anxiety that is having an effect on daily life and functioning that does not feel manageable on your own. Techniques focused on thought patterns, somatic awareness, and mindfulness are some strategies used to treat anxiety. Emotion regulation skills are also helpful in reducing uncomfortable feelings in the moment. It is important to incorporate a mind body approach because anxiety lives in both.

There are many holistic remedies that can be used to reduce mild feelings of anxiety. Please keep in mind, I am not a doctor, this is my own personal opinion as well as things that worked for me when I was experiencing anxiety.

Holistic remedies that may work in reducing anxiety include:

• Making sure you are eating healthy meals and staying hydrated

• Getting adequate sleep

• Essential oils - lavender, mint, bergamot, eucalyptus, and lemongrass are all calming scents that may increase your mood.

• Movement - walking, yoga, tai chi, pilates, weights, and other forms of movement is one of the best ways to reduce anxiety

• Cold water - using cold water in times of increased anxiety can snap your body out of an anxiety spiral. You can splash cold water on your face, hold an ice cube, place an ice pack on your neck, or take a cold shower.

• Supplements - there are many supplements out there that may help with mood such as GABA, L-theanine, ashwaghanda, and magnesium. These do not treat anxiety.