Navigating Anxiety: Embracing Natural Remedies to Unwind Your Mind

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s no surprise that many of us experience anxiety from time to time. Whether it’s triggered by work, relationships, or other stressors, anxiety can feel overwhelming and debilitating. I know firsthand how it feels when anxiety starts to set in; I always wished I could just will it away. I tended to be in denial, often ignoring the signs of anxiety and convincing myself that I was fine and in control. However, my body was trying to communicate a different message – there was something it wanted me to understand about how I was processing things internally. I eventually discovered that there is hope in overcoming anxiety, and I’m happy to report that I have found several natural ways to combat it. I’m excited to share with you a short list of my top favorite natural remedies to relieve anxiety. My hope is that by incorporating some of these natural remedies into your life, you can effectively alleviate anxiety and reclaim control over your life!

Understanding Anxiety:

Before delving into the various techniques for alleviating anxiety, it’s essential to understand what anxiety is and how it affects us. Anxiety is our body’s natural response to stress, a signal from our brain that something may be wrong and in need of attention. Our brain is designed to protect us and to constantly scan for potential threats – whether that’s physical threats or emotional threats. When the brain senses a threat to our wellbeing, it sends a message through the body a feeling of stress. When we don’t take the time to listen to that message and process it, it may be the case that the message will grow bigger or louder over time. But remember, the brain’s intention is good! It’s trying to protect you from something! So take the time to unpack the message your body is trying to send! 

The Brain’s Stress Loops:

When anxiety becomes chronic or overwhelming, our brain can get caught in stress loops. These loops reinforce anxious thoughts and behaviors, making it increasingly challenging to break free from the cycle. Over time, these pathways can become deeply ingrained, exacerbating feelings of anxiety and making it harder to cope. Even when this happens though, there is hope to break down these stress loops. Keep reading to explore some great natural remedies! 

Brain Rewiring Visualization Techniques for Anxiety:

One powerful way to interrupt these stress loops is through brain rewiring visualization techniques. By consciously visualizing solutions to our problems and envisioning ourselves overcoming challenges, we can reprogram our brain’s response to stress. This process can leave us feeling more relaxed, in control, and empowered to manage our anxiety effectively. 

I encourage you to try this technique next time you get caught up in anxiety, ask yourself the following (close your eyes or write it out, and you may find it to be even more effective): 

• What is the problem?
• What does the problem feel like?
• What does the problem/thought want you to know/learn?
• Can you visualize solutions? (Even if they’re not fully realistic)
• Can you visualize yourself overcoming the problem?
• How do you feel when you visualize yourself overcoming the problem? 

EFT Tapping for Relieving Anxiety 

One of my favorite, effective tools in the battle against anxiety is Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). EFT tapping involves gently tapping on specific acupressure points while focusing on the source of anxiety. This technique has been shown to reduce stress and promote emotional well-being. See my full article here on how to do EFT Tapping and how and why it works! 

Somatic Stretching to Alleviate Anxiety

Is it just me or are you noticing a trend for somatic stretching? I haven’t been good at stretching in the past, but have learned to embrace it – and even love it! Somatic stretching can be a valuable addition to your anxiety-relief toolkit. Somatic stretching involves gentle, mindful movements that help release tension stored in the muscles and nervous system and promote a sense of relaxation. By connecting with the body through intentional movement, somatic stretching can help alleviate physical symptoms of anxiety and promote overall well-being. An easy first place to start is stretching your hips, which tend to hold a lot of stress. Find some somatic stretching videos online to get more guidance, here is a great hip opener yoga flow to get started!!

Neurofeedback for Relieving Anxiety 

Neurofeedback is like a meditation hack for the brain. By monitoring brainwave activity and providing real-time feedback, neurofeedback helps train the brain to achieve a calmer, more balanced state. This can be incredibly beneficial for anyone struggling with anxiety and other mental health challenges. I love neurofeedback so much and have found it to be a game-changer in my life that I actually have a neurofeedback business! If you want to experience neurofeedback at home, I recommend the Muse* as a great starting place. 

Tried and True Methods to Relieve Anxiety:

In addition to these innovative approaches that I use and love, there are tried and true methods for alleviating anxiety. 

• Regular exercise
• Prioritizing restorative sleep
• Practicing deep breathing exercises 
• Spend time outdoors
• Grounding techniques
• Journaling 

All these can all help calm the nervous system and reduce feelings of anxiety. It’s essential to listen to your body’s signals, acknowledging the messages it’s sending and exploring them with compassion and curiosity.

Embracing Natural Remedies to Alleviate Anxiety:

I know first hand that anxiety is a common and often challenging aspect of modern life. However, by embracing natural remedies and incorporating some mindful practices into your daily routine, I’d like to offer hope that you can effectively alleviate anxiety and reclaim control over your mental and emotional well-being. Should you be in a place where professional support would be most helpful, I encourage you to find a mental health professional. If navigating this modern world and all the stressors we encounter has taught me anything, it’s that seeking help is a sign of strength. So, what resonates with you? Whether it’s brain rewiring visualization techniques, EFT tapping, neurofeedback, or more traditional methods, there are countless ways to manage anxiety and live a happier, more balanced life! Have fun trying something new and as always, I’m cheering you on every step of the way!

In Wellness,

Jeanna

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