Tips to Help Relax and Reduce Stress

Almost everyone faces stress. We manage a lot of responsibilities every day. Along with all those responsibilities come the stress. Here are tips to help relax and reduce stress:

1. De-Stress with Diet

• Chocolate and Cocoa:  Certain antioxidant elements in chocolate and cocoa, like polyphenols, can provide health benefits and protect our body from oxidative stress. Studies have shown that eating dark chocolate every day may lower stress hormones in our body too.
• Avocados: Avocados are rich in B vitamins, which support healthy nerve and brain function. Vitamin B deficiencies have been linked to higher levels of stress and anxiousness. Avocados also contain potassium and healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Nuts: Nuts are another great source of B vitamins. Also, since stress can make our immune system more vulnerable, the antioxidant, heart-supporting vitamin E and the mineral zinc found in nuts can help give our immune system a much-needed boost, especially during cold winter months.
• Salmon: Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon can help protect our body from the negative effects of stress hormones and support our heart health.
• Oatmeal: Oatmeal can boost our serotonin levels and help feel satiated, reducing cravings.
• Herbal Tea:  The simple act of relaxing with a cup of tea can be a stress-busting ritual. Choose herbal teas with ingredients that help promote relaxation like Chamomile Tea. In addition, L-theanine, a unique amino acid that comes from green tea, can deliver antioxidant properties. It helps promote healthy relaxation without drowsiness or any side effects associated with other options.
• Dark Leafy Greens: Leafy greens like spinach, kale and Swiss chard contain lutein, an antioxidant, carotenoid that support eye health, skin health and heart health. Plus, they contain folate, which helps our body produce serotonin and dopamine, the two mood-regulating neurotransmitters. 

2. Combat Stress by Essential Oils

Aromatherapy and essential oils have long been lauded for their ability to promote relaxation and relieve stress.

• Lavender Oil  – Lavender oil has a soothing, floral scent and may help reduce nervous tension.

• Rose Oil – Rose oil may lift our mood and promote tranquility.

• Ylang Ylang Oil  – Ylang Ylang may relax our body and nourish our spirit.
• Chamomile Oil – Chamomile may be a calming scent that helps combat nervousness and agitation.
• Bergamot Oil – Bergamot oil may be relaxing, calm emotions and reduce tension.
• Frankincense Oil  – Frankincense may relieve stress and promote a sense of peace and relaxation.
• Vetiver Oil – Vetiver oil may be a soothing tonic for the nerves and calm the mind.

 3. Add Vitamins, Minerals and Herbs for Stress Relief

• Vitamin B – B vitamins support nerve and brain function and help the body make serotonin, norepinephrine and melatonin.
• Magnesium– Magnesium decreases stress hormones and supports a healthy nervous system.
• Melatonin – Melatonin helps regulate sleep and wake cycles and getting enough sleep can help improve our mood and reduce stress.
• Valerian Root– Valerian is calming and helps relieve anxiousness, promoting relaxation.
• Ashwagandha – Ashwagandha may help neutralize the effects of stress on the body and strengthens the immune system.
• Rhodiola– Rhodiola fights the physical and mental effects of stress by reducing stress hormones and providing mood support.
• Holy Basil Leaf – Holy basil is an herb native to India and is regarded as one of the most important plants in Ayurvedic practice. What makes the herb so unique is its remarkable anti-stress activity.

4. Tune in to Body and Mind

Being mindful is essential for combating stress. When we feel stressed, practice deep breathing exercises or take a walk to clear our mind. Another way is meditation. Doing yoga also helps. Exercise helps release feel-good endorphins that can help reduce stress and improve our mood.

5. Practice Single-Tasking to Reduce Stress

Just focus on one task at a time — Multitasking can be stressful.

6. Keep a Journal to Manage our Stress
Track our habits and feelings by keeping a journal or stress diary. Writing things down helps get them off our mind and gives space to explore our thoughts and feelings thoroughly. Similarly, keeping a log of when feeling stressed.