How Can You Relax Naturally?

Oh no!
We’ve got a FitPerezcious reader on our hands who can’t seem to relax and curb their anxiety. So, they did the right thing and asked Margaux if there was anything they could do!
Here was the question:

“My life is super stressful and I just can’t seem to relax. I worry all the time and have noticed that my health is starting to be affected by my constant state of anxiety. Can I help relieve stress and anxiety with a diet change? Are there any natural ways that can help me relax and stop stressing out all the time? Thanks for your help.”

And here’s Marg’s response:

I am sorry to hear that you are feeling so stressed out. We all get anxious and stressed from time to time. Obvious sources of stress include deadlines at work, relationships, and financial issues. Other sources are less obvious and include things like traffic, noise, crowds, etc. Some people handle stress well but for others it can be devastating. Stress can cause fatigue, chronic headaches, irritability, changes in appetite, low self-esteem, teeth grinding, cold hands, and much more. Here are some nutritional and natural therapies that can help in relieving stress and bring peace to your busy life:
* Chamomile is a gentle relaxant. It is a good nerve tonic, soothing to the digestive tract, and a pleasant sleep aid. Try to get in the habit of brewing a cup of this tea every day, especially when you are under a lot of stress.
* Cut all processed foods out of your diet and all food that create stress on the digestive system (and make you feel even worse). These foods include artificial sweeteners, carbonated soft drinks, chocolate, eggs, fried foods, junk foods, pork, red meat, sugar, white flour products, and foods that contain preservatives.
* Cut back on your coffee. Limiting the intake of caffeine everyday is important as it can contribute to even more nervousness and it can disrupt sleep patterns. The last thing you want is to be stressed out and tired at the same time!
* Try to eat a diet that is composed of 50 to 70 percent raw foods. Fresh fruits and vegetables not only supply valuable vitamins and minerals, but are rich in flavonoids. Many of these flavonoids scavenge and neutralize dangerous free radicals in the body. This helps us feel healthy and happy!
* Aromatherapy is wonderful for helping to calm and stabilize your moods. Essential oils affect both the mind and the body. Some that are very good for relaxation include chamomile, bergamot, sandalwood, lavender, and sweet marjoram.
* Practice deep breathing. Holding your breath and slowing releasing it is good for helping you get through stressful situations.
* Get regular exercise. Go for walks in the morning and evenings. Take up yoga, bike riding, Pilates, swimming, or any activity that you enjoy!

Thanks, Margaux! We AND our readers appreciate the advice!
We’d like to add soothing music to that list, too!
For more nutrition tips, check out Margaux’s website and write [email protected] with any questions for her!