Caught in Fight or Flight?

Here’s how to ease out of the stress and anxiety hamster wheel.North America seems to be in an epidemic! The demands of work and family life, busy days and not enough time for self-nurturing are allowing people to spin out of control. And the end result? Adrenal fatigue, insomnia, headaches, and a host of other mental and physical health concerns. But what’s a body to do? Fortunately, there are a number of natural options available. Both herbs and their concentrated counterparts, essential oils, have proven invaluable when it comes to supporting the nervous system. Oatstraw is a yummy little herb that is a nervine. This means it calms down the whole nervous system and helps promote a restful sleep. Lavender is an antidepressant and can help lessen insomnia. Lemon balm is a prolific little herb assisting with stress and anxiety. P.S. we carry a tea combining all three. Insomniacs swear by it! Believe it or not, catnip is very effective in humans as a remedy for nervous tension. A tea or soak in the tub before bed will set the tone for a peaceful, restful, healing night’s sleep, as will vetiver, valerian and a host of other herbs/essential oil blends. Herbs in the bath can also soothe sore muscles brought on by tension during the day. Marjoram, rosemary, sage, comfrey, (so does peppermint, but it is energizing, so best to use in the morning) are wonderful tub companions. There are a variety of other healing plants one might use at any given time, but too many to list here.I also want to point out the importance of taking moments every single day just for you. Whether it is a walk in nature, deep breathing exercises, time for meditation or positive affirmations (there is a lot on-line, as well as phone apps that are free-try “Calm”, Headspace”, or “IshaKriya” to get an idea of what appeals to you) or a yoga class, any of these practices will help you stay calm and centred when you feel like you are in the middle of chaos.
©2016 Heather Garrod is a Certified Aromatherapist and owner of PlanetBotanix, 301 Bank between Maclaren and Somerset. 
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