4 natural ways to soothe stress levels

Research is consistently finding that being outside in nature brings with it a whole host of mind-clearing benefits. We look at other natural ways keep stress at bay.

There’s a reason it’s called ‘the great outdoors’.

Whether it is a walk in the park, a hike in the hills or just simply sitting in the sun, science has shown that when you’re outside your body and mind undergo a psychological shift.

That’s a shift for the better, and it doesn’t take long either.

A 2020 study by researchers at Cornell University in the US found that as little as 10 minutes in nature can help us feel happier and lessen the effects of physical and mental stress.

For those who live in built-up urban areas, the researchers found it is the time spent in nature and not necessarily nature itself, which is beneficial.

While you’re busy searching out your local green spaces, here are some other natural ways to ease those feelings of tension and mild anxiety, so much a feature of daily life.

Clear the mind

Achieving a mental state of calm concentration through meditation has been shown to dial down the body’s response to stress.

There are lots of different ways to clear your mind and be more present — try listening to music, breathing exercises, gardening, doodling or even keeping a journal, which has been shown to decrease intrusive thoughts.

Try a hike or long walk

Physical exercise is well known to release brain chemicals like endorphins and serotonin, which help to boost your mood and relieve anxiety and depression.

In a nutshell, it fuels the brain’s stress buffers, forcing your body’s physiological systems (all of which are involved in your stress response) to communicate more closely than usual.

Embrace home workouts

If you’re cooped up at home and feeling anxious, busting a few simple moves at home can help.

Whether it is yoga, Pilates on YouTube or a simple series of squats and lunges, there are plenty of ways to incorporate some short bursts of exercise at home.

If you’re not comfy going it alone, try some group exercise.

Incorporate ashwagandha into your daily routine

Known for its stress-relieving properties, the herb with the unusual name is one of the most important in Ayurveda, a traditional medicine based on Indian principles of natural healing.

People have used it for thousands of years to relieve stress, increase energy levels and support memory and focus — and now modern science is catching up.

Ashwagandha is what’s known as an adaptogen, a substance that helps your body cope with stress.

One study out of India found that participants who took Ashwagandha extract for eight weeks had significantly reduced perceived stress, and levels of cortisol, than those who took a placebo.

Getting high strength ashwagandha simply and easily

GO Healthy GO Ashwagandha 8,000+ Stress & Energy 1-A-Day capsules are an easy and convenient way to incorporate this superstar herb into your everyday routine to support a healthy stress response in your body.

The formula also contains vitamin B5 which supports energy levels, energy production and assists the body to cope with environmental stress, and Siberian Ginseng which supports physical stamina.

This post is brought to you by GO Healthy. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Dietary supplements can only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate.