With the hectic pace of daily life, stress management has become a necessity to preserve one's well-being. And for this, everyone is free to choose what suits them, although the majority of people prefer natural stress management. Herbs, essential oils, relaxing practices: what are the possibilities, and what should you prioritize? Discover in this article our tips for managing stress naturally!
Reduce stress with herbs
Among the possible options for better managing stress , we find herbs. There are a very large number of them and it is easy to get lost among all these varieties. To help you, here are some herbs that can help reduce stress, naturally.
Chamomile
Chamomile , from the Asteraceae family, is often used for its soothing and relaxing properties. Indeed, it contains compounds such as apigenin, which can have calming effects on the nervous system. Chamomile is also commonly consumed in the form of herbal tea to promote relaxation.
Valerian
Valerian is a plant whose roots are used for their sedative properties. It works by modulating the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, which can help calm the nervous system. Valerian is frequently used today in the form of supplements or herbal teas.
Lavender
Nowadays, lavender essential oil is known for its relaxing properties. This is also why it is used in aromatherapy, to reduce stress and anxiety. It is also possible to consume lavender in the form of herbal tea for its calming effects.
St. John's Wort
As for St. John's Wort , it is an herb that is often used to treat mild to moderate depression. And some studies suggest it may also have positive effects on stress. However, it can interact with certain medications, so before adding it to your routine it is best to consult a doctor.
Lemon balm
Finally, lemon balm is also one of these plants with calming properties. Traditionally, it is said that it can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Lemon balm is generally consumed in the form of herbal tea.
Use essential oils suitable for stress management
Another natural option for managing stress: essential oils. They are in fact often used in aromatherapy to help relieve stress and promote relaxation. Below are some essential oils known for their relaxing and soothing properties.
Chamomile essential oil
Roman chamomile oil is particularly appreciated for its soothing action. It can help calm nerves and reduce anxiety.
To use it, several possibilities: add a few drops to a diffuser, or dilute in a carrier oil for skin application, or inhale gently by placing a few drops on a tissue.
Bergamot essential oil
Bergamot oil is frequently used to boost mood and reduce stress. Be careful, however, because bergamot oil is photosensitizing, so avoid applying it to the skin before exposing yourself to the sun.
To use it, you can dilute it in a carrier oil to apply it to your skin, add a few drops of oil to a diffuser or even use a room spray.
Lemon essential oil
Lemon oil may have energizing effects and help improve mood. Additionally, it is sometimes used to reduce stress and increase concentration.
To use it, add it to a cleanser for a feeling of freshness, dilute it in a carrier oil for skin application or add a few drops to a diffuser to place in the main room of your home. .
Peppermint essential oil
Peppermint oil is particularly known to help boost mental energy and relieve tension. However, some people may find the scent of peppermint too intense, so it is important to use it in moderation.
For optimal use, this oil can be gently inhaled, applied to the skin when diluted with another oil, or used in a diffuser.
Sandalwood essential oil
Sandalwood oil is often used for its relaxing properties. Besides, the sweet smell of sandalwood can help create a calming ambiance.
To test the benefits of this oil, you can for example dilute it for topical application or use it in a mixture of oils to place in a diffuser.
Adopt good relaxing practices
In addition to herbs and oils to naturally manage stress, there are also “good practices” that promote relaxation and relaxation. These are generally simple exercises, but they must be practiced consciously. Here are some ideas to help you.
Mental and emotional relaxation practices
- Meditation: Take a few minutes each day to meditate. This could be a guided meditation, a mindfulness meditation, or simply sitting in silence focusing on your breathing.
- Breathing exercises: Deep breathing can help calm the nervous system. Practice abdominal breathing by inhaling through your nose, holding your breath for a few seconds, then slowly exhaling through your mouth.
- Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can also be an effective way to release emotional stress. To do this, keep a journal in which you feel free to express yourself as and when you want.
Relaxing physical activities
- Yoga : Yoga is a sporting practice that combines gentle movements, stretching and breathing techniques. This technique can help release tension, whether physical or mental.
- Relaxing bath : If you have a bathtub, take a warm bath with soothing bath salts, lavender essential oil, or other relaxing essential oils. You are ready to have a good time in peace and come out feeling relaxed.
- Regular physical activity : As simple as it may seem, regular exercise releases endorphins, the “happy hormones,” and thus helps reduce stress.
And other good practices
- Artistic practice : draw, paint, make music, sculpt, in short, engage in any creative activity that brings you joy! And you will see that it relaxes you and helps you manage stress more effectively.
- Laughter : laughing allows you to relax, feel good and be better able to manage stressful situations. There are many options for this! Watch a comedy or just hang out with people who make you laugh.
- Regular sleep routine: finally, it no longer needs to be proven, quality sleep has a significant impact on stress management. So, make sure you maintain a healthy sleep routine, and you will quickly feel the benefits.
Conclusion
Today there are many ways to manage stress naturally. From herbs to essential oils, through various relaxing practices, you now have the keys in hand to soothe your mind and body when necessary. By integrating practices from each of these categories into your daily routine, build real armor. So ready to face stress?
