You may feel it psychologically but also as muscle tension, neck, shoulder or back pain or headaches, migraines and even nausea.
Because our days are so busy and we tend to want everything to be perfect, anxiety is quite common. It can be caused simply by being a perfectionist or ‘worry wart’. Or, it can be a symptom of an underlying health condition such as a thyroid problem or heart disease. So, it pays to get a health check.
Once you know what’s going on, there are lots of natural ways to address anxiety.
First step is to address your diet. Are you eating well, including lots of vegetables and fresh, natural wholefoods? Do you rely too heavily on anxiety inducers such as caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes?
What about exercise? Do you get active at least three times a week? Have you got an energising activity that you love?
And, relaxation? Have you got a method for switching off that doesn’t rely on substances such as alcohol? A key to aiding anxiety is to develop a relaxation habit. Disciplines such as meditation and yoga or a pre-sleep routine can do wonders.
Once you have conquered some diet and lifestyle issues, consider adding therapeutic herbs such as St John’s Wort or a brain optimised variety of curcumin from turmeric. Sleeping herbs such as valerian, passionflower, lemon balm or lavender are also beneficial because if you sleep deeply and enjoy sleep’s healing benefits, chances are you’ll wake feeling calm and ready for the day.
Nutrients such as B complex vitamins, vitamin C and the mineral zinc are also good for the brain and anxious tension. Magnesium can be useful for the nervous system and also for muscle tension and cramping that can occur in anxiety. You may find a multivitamin or a stress complex can help cover any nutritional gaps caused by your diet.
Anxiety can be a lonely problem because those who don’t ever feel anxious can struggle to empathise. Talk to a sympathetic friend and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Socialising can actually help ease your worry as you start to replace the worry with joy.
For more information on anxiety and stress, click here to check out the Blackmores stress hub or phone our Naturopathic Advisory Line on 0508 75 74 73 and speak to a qualified naturopath.