Some quick natural remedies that are easy enough to incorporate into your social distancing lives at this time to help you take control and cope with day to day anxiety.
Breathwork
Inhale deeping and fill your lungs for four counts, hold for seven counts, and then exhale for eight counts. Breathing patterns and techniques like this that involve holding the breath for a period of time allow your body to replenish its oxygen, giving your organs and tissues a much-needed oxygen boost.
Move Your Body
Hit the trail for a hike, practice mat pilates, take a 15 minute walk, or even dancing in your kitchen! Sometimes, the best way to stop anxious thoughts is to walk away for a minute. Taking some time to focus on your body and not your mind may help relieve your anxiety. Mindful movement (Qigong, Yoga) where you change your posture, breathing, and rhythm can all change your brain, thereby reducing stress and anxiety, and leading to a feeling of well-being.
Aromatherapy
Whether they’re in oil form, incense, or a candle, scents like lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood can be very soothing. Aromatherapy is thought to help activate certain receptors in your brain, potentially easing anxiety.
Magnesium
Research shows that magnesium plays an important role in regulating neurotransmitters, which send messages throughout the brain and body.
Journal
Write down your thoughts. Writing out the things that are making you anxious gets it out of your head and can make it less daunting.
Stay Connected
Isolation & loneliness can exacerbate anxiety. Reach out for support and make it a priority to stay in touch with friends and family. Think about scheduling regular phone, chat, or Facetime dates to check in with your loved ones.
Meditation
Sit comfortably, focusing on your breathing, and then bringing your mind’s attention to the present let any concerns or thoughts about the past or future drift on by. Apps like Headspace, or Calm can help you get comfortable with meditation and increase the time you can practice it.
Gratitude
When we’re in the present moment, there’s a lot less to feel anxious about and a lot more to feel joyous about.
Try to take care of your physical, emotional, & relational health now and always. If you’re seeking more long-term strategies to help lessen the severity of your anxiety and even prevent it please reach out.