In today’s modern world, it’s tough to find time to relax. That’s why far too many people turn to prescription medication or non-doctor-approved drugs just to unwind. But that can also do significant damage to the body and mind. Luckily, you can find many alternatives to help you relax that are all-natural and non-habit forming. Here are my top six favorite holistic methods of relaxation that you should try today.
Start Meditating
Meditation is proven to reduce stress and help you achieve a more balanced, tranquil state of mind. It’s a practice that’s been used for centuries to give practitioners a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the universe.
Whenever I’m feeling anxious or overwhelmed, I meditate for 10 to 15 minutes and suddenly feel calmer and more in control. It’s a great way to reduce the clutter in your brain and focus only on what’s right in front of you.
Go for a Nature Walk
Getting some exercise is another excellent way to eliminate the stress and anxiety that may be preventing you from adequately relaxing. If your goal is to relax, you may not want to start kickboxing or doing CrossFit—but something as simple as a nice nature walk can be a great way to get your heart rate up without overextending yourself.
Anytime I’m feeling tense, going for a nature walk helps me put things into perspective and let go of what I can’t control. Getting away from civilization and basking in the beauty of the natural world helps me realize how blessed I truly am!
Experiment with CBD
CBD is another all-natural solution you should consider if you struggle to relax. It’s a chemical compound found in marijuana that doesn’t produce the same euphoric effects as its sister compound, THC. But it does offer some of the same benefits, such as relaxed mood and reduced stress and anxiety.
CBD can be consumed orally, applied as a cream, or smoked in a rolling paper or vaporizer. Plus, it’s good for your mental health and can also be great for your skin and muscles. It’s known to reduce inflammation, which helps many different bodily systems function more efficiently. I use CBD in my daily wellness routine, and it helps me feel calmer throughout the day.
Try an Ethnobotanical
Ethnobotanicals are plants used by indigenous cultures to solve a variety of common ailments – including stress and anxiety. One of the most common ethnobotanicals used in the West is kratom, a plant in the coffee family known for its unique effects.
While kratom is mainly known for its stimulating properties, some strains are great for muscle relaxation. Specifically, the Indo strains of kratom are known to increase ease, relieve pain and promote good feelings. So, if you’re looking for a non-pharmaceutical solution to muscle pain or stress, you should look into kratom.
Make an Herbal Tea
Herbal tea is a simple solution that can promote relaxation and reduce muscle pain and soreness. If you are an avid coffee drinker but find yourself feeling on edge and unable to relax, you may decide to make the switch to herbal tea instead.
While it won’t give you the same quick boost of energy, it does help stimulate brain activity and won’t leave you feeling as jittery and anxious. Any time I need a quick pick-me-up in the later afternoon, I brew some herbal tea to keep going. I find it gives me the spark I need to get through the day without making me crash later on like caffeine.
Do Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a holistic treatment that uses plant extracts and herbs to promote health and relaxation. The practice involves using body oils, terpenes, diffusers, aromatic spritzers, and bathing salts to enhance physical and emotional health by stimulating the senses. Aromatherapy is known to help manage pain, improve sleep quality, reduce stress and agitation, and offer various other benefits that promote relaxation.
So, if you are struggling to find ways to relax but don’t want to turn to pharmaceutical solutions, these are the options you should consider. They are all-natural and non-habit forming, so you get the help you need without the side effects.
Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash
