Southern Mom Loves: 6 Natural Ways to Fight Stress and Anxiety

6 Natural Ways to Fight Stress and Anxiety

Monday, May 2, 2016

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In today’s fast-paced world it's hard not feeling stressed. Do you often find yourself feeling nervous, powerless, or worried? It could be anxiety and you're not the only one. In the race for more, it's easy to forget about our own well-being. There are many options for natural treatment of anxiety available, and I'll tell you about 6 natural remedies to help you fight stress and anxiety.


I want to start this post by saying that I have had an anxiety disorder for most of my life. I wasn't diagnosed until I was 30 because I didn't know that it was treatable; I just thought it was something I had to live with. Finding out from my doctor that it was common and could be treated quickly and safely was one of the biggest reliefs in my life.

The following natural remedies are for stress and mild (non-chronic) anxiety. If you feel anxious for long periods of time, or are having panic attacks or depression, I urge you to tell your doctor as soon as possible. It could be as simple as a slight chemical or hormonal imbalance and be easily treatable.


1. St. Johns Wort for mild depression caused by anxiety

St. Johns Wort is powerful for helping the depression that often comes with Anxiety. Studies have proven St. Johns Wort is effective against mild to moderate depression. This is how St. Johns Wort received the nickname "Nature's Prozac." If on medicines for cholesterol you should avoid this option as it can create a drug interaction.

2. Essential oils for stress and anxiety

Essential oils can be great for you to treat your mild anxiety. You can make a custom inhaler by adding 8-10 drops of essential oils for anxiety to the wick of an essential oil inhaler or a cotton ball inside an empty essential oil bottle. Good essential oil options to fight anxiety include valerian, marjoram, bergamot.

3. Chamomile for anxiety

Chamomile has a mild sedative effect that can be used to calm anxiety. This gentle herb can be safely used on children. A simple infusion of two tablespoons of dried Chamomile flowers in 3/4 cup boiling water, and steep for 10-15 minutes is a great way to calm anxiety. This simple infusion can be used up to 3 times a day as needed.  This infusion does not last long so you will need to make a new pot for each cup of tea. If pregnant you should not use Chamomile beyond culinary use.

4. Passionflower for stress

The leaves of the passionflower are great for tension and stress. If you live in the south you can grow this yourself, and it is sometimes called MayPop. The flower itself is beautiful for your garden and the fruit is edible. You can use passionflower leaves to help you sleep when you suffer from insomnia. Infuse 1 teaspoon dried passionflower leaves in boiling water for 5-8 minutes. Drink 1 hour before bedtime.

5. Lavender for stress and anxiety

Lavender is a classic herb used for it's calming effect. Lavender is used to treat many things including restlessness, nerves, and to assist in falling asleep. A pouch of lavender inside your pillowcase is a great way to help you sleep, or you can make a linen spray.

Lavender Linen Spray
In a clean glass bottle, combine lavender oil and vodka or witch hazel. Shake well to combine. Add water and give another good shake. Shake well with each use.

6. Exercise to fight stress and Anxiety

Exercise is a great way to naturally fight stress and anxiety, and Yoga is the perfect combination of physical exercise and calming breaths that will help you stay focused and calm. Exercise releases endorphins, a chemical that interacts with your brain and works as a natural painkiller, triggers positive feelings in the body, and improves sleep.  If yoga is not your thing find something that does work for you and enjoy the happy hormones exercise releases!


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Are you feeling stressed? What are your biggest triggers? I love to read your comments.

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