Non-Medicated Ways For Relieving Stress

Can you simply not escape the stress?

Dear readers, you are not alone. Let me just say that I have been there! In fact, I had a few rather unpleasant near-death experiences (long story) that left me with crippling panic attacks for years. The only way I survived was by learning how to manage stress and anxiety. Especially in public. Anyone who has ever had a panic attack knows how embarrassing it is to meltdown in public. There were quite a few occasions at school or work when I would duck into a public restroom- my face a veneer of forced calm- only to lock myself in a stall and start hyperventilating in earnest. I'm happy to say that this no longer happens to me and I am in a much healthier place. And I'm in a better place without any medication. I did a lot of research and these are some tips that helped me survive the hard years.

Deep Breaths

Yeah, I know. What a load of crap, right? Don't exit the screen just yet. When you are in the midst of a panic attack, you HAVE to make yourself breathe regularly or things will only get worse. You don't receive enough oxygen, your hands start tingling, you get lightheaded, your chest is tight- "OH GOD I'M DYING!" And faceplant. You pass out. Oxygen is important, my friends. Even if you aren't to the stage of hyperventilation, it has been proven that deep breathing slows your heart rate and lowers your blood pressure. So close your eyes, take some deep breaths, and find your center.

Therapy

Lots of people need therapy and can't afford it, but you can still find help. If the majority of your stress is a result of bad experiences, then talking about them and getting a fresh perspective can help. If a paid professional is not an option, then talk to someone you love and trust. You can confide in your family member, your friend, your significant other, or your religious leader. If you don't have anyone you can trust not to be a douchebag, then there are also hotlines you can call for support. You have options and the resources are out there. Whatever you do, don't deal alone. I know how hard it is to talk about traumatic things, but it is also an important step toward recovery. 

Physical Changes

Yoga For Beginners. Yoga is an awesome way to improve your overall health. And bonus! You don't have to kill yourself at the gym to get exercise. There's a difference between being healthy and being a beefcake. Take a jog, do some yoga- you'll be fine. Yoga is very relaxing (as long as you don't try advanced poses too soon) and it has marvelous benefits for your body. Just a few of those are improved flexibility and circulation. When your body feels better, so does your brain. Do I do yoga consistently? Not the recommended 30 minutes a day, no. I've always tried to get it in at least twice a week. But if I feel stiff or stressed, I practice a few of my favorite poses. It really does help.

Nice Smells

Have you ever smelled something and suddenly felt an overwhelming sense of well-being? Coffee, perhaps? There's a reason for that. Those smell cells in the nose are linked to the limbic system. This is the oldest part of the brain which governs emotions, behavior, and long-term memory. The general consensus is that lavender works miracles on stress. Vanilla is also a popular choice. So buy some scented candles and light them around the house when you get home. That way, the scents will subconsciously program your brain into a better mood. You won't even have to think about it. 

Take Personal Time

I know that life is demanding and the idea of personal time seems like a laughable concept. I also know that it is extremely important. Click here for an article from Psychology Today explaining exactly why. Even if you can only grab thirty minutes over a cup of coffee, being alone allows you to let down your social guard and really think about what you want and need. Having a hard time figuring out a problem? Take some alone time. Stressed to the max? Get alone and do something that helps you relax. 

Okay, readers. That's all I have time for today. 

Happy relaxing!