Our hectic lifestyles have made it more difficult to achieve relaxation. Studies show that stress is more prevalent than ever. If you struggle to switch off, it’s beneficial to try self-help techniques. In this guide, we’ll outline some of the most effective natural remedies to boost relaxation.
Regular exercise
Most of us are familiar with benefits of exercise, such as building and strengthening muscles and lowering the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, but active lifestyles can also help you prevent stress and feel calmer. Working out, playing sports and exercising daily can boost your mood, combat stress and increase your energy levels. When you move your body, it releases endorphins and the levels of feel-good chemicals, including dopamine and serotonin, rise. This creates a natural high, which makes you feel great.
Being more active can enhance overall well-being, but it can also provide an outlet if you’re stressed or dealing with negative emotions. If you’ve had a frustrating day, for example, you might find playing team sports, going to the gym or doing a boxing, dance or HIIT class cathartic. Even simple things, like going for a walk during your lunch break, can make a big difference.
Food and drink
What you eat affects your body and mind. While some foods provide an energising hit, others can help you unwind and relax. In countries like the UK, it’s common to reach for the kettle whenever people feel low, they need a pick-me-up or they’ve had a long or busy day. A ‘cuppa’ can be comforting, but the ingredients in tea can also be soothing. If you’re not a tea connoisseur but you’re interested in the relaxing properties of this human nectar, it’s worth reading about white tea. What is white tea, you ask? White tea is delicate with a sweet, floral note. It contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which is calming. It can aid sleep and help you wind down.
Other foods to include in your diet to induce relaxation include magnesium-rich almonds and pumpkin seeds, and oily fish, which is packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
Being outside
The majority of people have desk jobs, which means they spend long periods indoors. A UK government study suggests most people spend up to 90% of their time inside. Research indicates that being outside, especially in nature, can be hugely therapeutic. Getting fresh air and spending time around trees, flowers, plants and water can supercharge mental health, improve physical and mental well-being and help you manage stress effectively. Natural environments can also provide an excellent base for fun activities that offer a distraction from stressors. Examples range from swimming, surfing, climbing and hiking to mountain biking, hiking, canoeing and camping.
It’s not always easy to switch off, especially if your mind is racing, you’re stressed or you’ve got a lot on your plate. Implementing self-help techniques can help you manage stress and induce calmness. Natural ways to boost relaxation include exercising regularly, adding certain foods and drinks to your diet and spending more time in nature.