5 Ways To Burst Stress Naturally!

Stress is the body’s natural way of dealing with a threatening situation. However, excessive stress can harm the body by lowering immunity and disturbing our mental and physical equilibrium. It is also a key factor that causes many diseases. Here are a few natural ways to beat stress.

1. Get plenty of vitamin D: Vitamin D helps reduce stress and promotes the production of serotonin that reduces anxiety and makes a person feel happy. Vitamin D also boosts the immune system and strengthens the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular system. Exposing yourself to upto 15 minutes of sunlight a day is the best source of Vitamin D. Alternatively you could include salmon and cod liver oil in your daily diet. Vitamin D supplements can also help.
2. Breathe deeply: We take the simple action of inhaling and exhaling for granted, but when done properly; it can engage the parasympathetic nervous system and help metabolize stress hormones. Using the technique of aulom vilom is very useful when dealing with stressful situations. Simply sit upright and close one nostril while inhaling deeply through the other. Hold your breath for a few seconds and then close the nostril you inhaled from and exhale through the other. Repeat with the other nostril.
3. Chamomile tea: Herbs like chamomile have the ability to neutralize the effect of stress hormones. It also has powerful anti-oxidant properties. Chamomile tea is also often prescribed for people who suffer from insomnia and sleep difficulties. To benefit from this herb, steep a cup of hot water with a spoonful of dried chamomile leaves and drink the tea.
4. Exercise: Hitting the gym or taking a long walk are very effective ways of combatting stress. Apart from making you fit, exercise also improves blood flow through your body and triggers the release of happy hormones. It also gives you time to yourself away from work and other responsibilities that may be tying you down. If you cannot put aside half an hour each day to exercise, try simply being more active through the day. For example, take the stairs instead of the elevator.
5. Herbal remedies: There are a number of herbs that help fight stress. Ginseng helps reduce the production of cortisol in the body and boosts the immune system. Basil is another great stress busting herb that also reduces pain and inflammation. Ashwagandha helps calm the mind in a troubled situation while passion flower can address stress induced anxiety. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult an Ayurveda.