https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuKgfIOUCDg&feature=youtu.be
High Stress State
The world we live in now is at the highest stress level it has been. Stress can come from many factors including chemical, physical, and emotional. Fear of the unknown or future, as well as comparison online, has come to an all-time high. When stress becomes chronic, or unattended, it can lead to deeper things such as anxiety and depression.
A Natural Approach
Most people link depression and anxiety to emotions, but many other factors can be keeping you in this state. Certain medications and chemicals will disrupt your hormones and in return lead to these two things. Although emotions have a huge factor with depression and anxiety, chemical and physical stress have an equal impact on the body. No matter where the source of stress is, your body reacts to it the same way. Luckily, there are natural ways to decrease stress and improve anxiety and depression.
Top Six Tips to Overcome Anxiety and Depression
1. Diet
It is crucial to eat non-inflammatory foods. Foods such as sugar, wheat, soy, and corn can effect the digestive system which ultimately creates an imbalance internally. Since all systems are connected, your diet plays an important role when it comes to anxiety and depression.
2. Move
Sometimes without movement, you feel more fatigued. When you move as a priority, it will stimulate your hormones and boost your mood. Exercise can also be a great therapeutic tool to boost endorphins.
3. Breathing Exercises
Breathe through your nose for 4 seconds, hold it for 7 seconds, and breathe out for 8 seconds. This is called the 4-7-8 method and is best to do this 6-7 times. Doing this exercise can reduce momentary stress and assist your body to get into homeostasis or a balanced state.
4. Naps
Sleep is important for everyone to be healthy. When you are in a higher stressed state, naps are more effective and beneficial. Taking a 60-90 minute nap can increase creativity and boost your mood. On top of these positive effects, it allows your body to remain calm and heal.
5. Adaptogens
Adaptogenic herbs are powerful ways to increase your body’s ability to adapt to stress. Ashwagandha, an Indian ginseng, is the number one most recommended. Consult with your doctor to find out which adaptogen is best for you.
6. Get Tested
A huge part of your neurotransmitters stem from the gut, so anything from a yeast infection to a parasite could be effecting your anxiety and depression levels. Taking a stool test will show the levels within your microbiome, digestive health, and any concerning infections that need to be addressed.