Ideal for those looking to take back control of their mindset.
Last month, the Guardian reported on a phenomenon which psychologists have termed ‘pandemic burnout’, warning that the latest lockdown has been particularly tough on the nation’s mental health. This has been characterised by a ‘’period of sustained stress similar to overwork, which has prompted symptoms such as fatigue’’, made worse by uncertainty over when restrictions will be lifted and a dawning realisation that COVID-19 might be around for the long haul.
One thing’s for certain; this sense of uncertainty isn’t going away, with even the government’s ‘road map’ to freedom now under threat of derailment. If you sense the onset of pandemic burnout and stress approaching, then it’s best to be proactive and tackle this thing head on, before listlessness and a lack of motivation strike. With that in mind, here are 6 popular natural remedies for stress relief, IDEAL for those looking to take back control of their mindset.
RECONNECT WITH THE NATURAL WORLD
The UK’s leading mental health charity, Mind, recommend reconnecting with the natural world in order to reduce stress and improve your wellbeing. And honestly, after a year of largely being stuck indoors, this is music to our ears.
They go on to list several ways in which nature can benefit your mental health, including mood improvement, reduction of stress and anger, and helping you feel more relaxed. And that’s what you’re here for, right?
Reconnecting with the natural world needn’t mean undertaking an outward bounds, 7 day hike which Bear Grylls would struggle to complete, but rather, simply making the time to spend a few moments outdoors each day. Now the weather is warming up and the evenings are getting lighter, why not endeavour to take your lunch break in a park or enjoy a brisk walk after work through some greenery? Research published by Cornell University in 2020 found that even 10 minutes in a natural setting can lessen the effects of both physical and mental stress. Every little helps!
AEROBIC EXERCISE
During tough times, it’s especially important to remember just how hugely, immeasurably beneficial exercise is, for both the body and mind, with the NHS recommending 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week, to boost mood, health and wellbeing, as well as keeping a whole host of issues at bay, including stress.
Now that Spring has sprung, why not incorporate the previous advice to reconnect with the natural world with this suggestion to workout, by taking your daily exercise outdoors? If you’ve been struggling to find the motivation to exercise recently, then perhaps you could use this change in the weather as a catalyst to restart your fitness regime.
AVOID UNHEALTHY FORMS OF STRESS RELIEF
When we’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed, it’s a sad truth that the quickest, most efficient escapes from this feeling are also the most unhealthy in the long run. Whether you find yourself reaching for a glass of wine, the takeaway menu or a cigarette after a tough day, it seems that succumbing to vices in times of stress has increased dramatically in the past year.
Alcohol responsibility charity Drinkaware recently warned that ‘’lockdown level drinking could have (a) lasting impact as research reveals worrying drinking trends’’. The NHS agree, cautioning that ‘’the most unhelpful thing you can do is turn to something unhealthy to help you cope, such as smoking or drinking’’.
So, one of the most natural remedies for stress relief is to keep an eye on those vices, identifying the causes of stress and therefore, the triggers for such unhealthy habits. When the temptation strikes, instead look to nature, exercise or meditation for immediate stress relief. Speaking of which…
MEDITATION
One of the most misunderstood ways to reduce stress and increase your wellbeing is meditation. While many people practice it, meditation still has a reputation for being difficult, time-consuming, faddish and simply not actionable in our busy, hectic lives.
This is far from the truth. While there are many forms of meditation, some of which take hours of deep practice to master, some are as simple as sitting quietly for a few moments, allowing your thoughts to slow and your perspective to gain clarity.
Why not start with a simple five-minute sit down in a quiet, distraction-free space, such as your bedroom or a park bench? Simply sitting still, observing your breath and listening to your thoughts and worries can have a potentially powerful effect on your overall stress levels. In fact, after just 8 weeks of regular practice, scientists found a significant reduction of amygdala area of practitioner’s brains, which plays a major role in stress and anxiety.
If you’re wondering how to get started, then check out these 5 IDEAL steps to better mindful meditation.
A HEALTHY DIET & VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS
Your diet also plays a crucial role in mindset management, and there are several foods which have been linked to stress reduction. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, via Everyday Health, foods containing Omega-3 have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Avocados, oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, nuts and seeds all contain generous amounts of the stuff. If you feel like you’re not getting enough Omega-3 in your diet, through conventional means, supplements are available.
Fermented foods high in probiotics and healthy gut bacteria, such as kimchi, sauerkraut, yoghurt and miso, may also help relieve stress; no wonder they call your gut the ‘second mind’. Again, supplements are available should you not relish the rich, complex tang of such foods.
In recent years, a growing number of people have also been using CBD oil after various reports on its potential for stress relief. Though studies are ongoing and no conclusive evidence yet found, some links have been drawn between the product and the alleviation of some mental health issues.
Always consult with your GP or nutritionist before adding CBD to your diet.
HERBAL TEAS
Finally, an ancient, natural remedy for stress relief, herbal teas are a popular household choice across the world for those looking to enjoy the potential benefits of various essential oils on mood and mindset. Some of the best herbal teas for stress relief include peppermint, chamomile, lavender, kava and valerian, though it should be noted that scientific opinion is divided on just how effective these actually are in aiding relaxation.
Part of the joy, though, is in the process, and taking a minute out of your busy schedule to sit and savour a cup of aromatic, warming tea certainly won’t do any harm!
*This article is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP first*