Natural remedies for stress

Stress is an inextricable part of our fast-paced, hectic world and has become part of everyday life for many people. We live in a world where so much is expected of us in every aspect of life. Stress used to be a „real”, built-up reaction to the dangers in the world. Today, however, it is not physical danger we need to fear, but „invisible” dangers. Most often it manifests itself as stress at work, social pressures and anxiety. In this article, we look at the causes of stress and ways of dealing with it.

What is stress?

Stress is the body's natural response to danger, a signal from the body that trouble might happen. It is more or less the body's natural response to any external pressure or danger. Whereas in the past these were rapid, intense and brief stress reactions, today stress is chronic.

When the body is faced with a stressful situation, we are in a „hit or run” situation. That is, we have to make a conscious decision to fight the situation (hit) or try to hide from it (run). While the options are clear in the case of a predator, in the case of a relationship, work or family problem, it is not so simple to decide what the „hit” or „run” response is to the situation.

The stress response leads to increased production of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These prepare the body to cope with the threat by increasing the heart rate, raising blood pressure and increasing the energy supply to the muscles. Although for our ancestors this response was necessary for survival, today, with the chronic stress is a problem that can have serious consequences for our health.

Health problems caused by stress are known as physiological, mental or emotional problems. Each of these categories should be given appropriate attention and the symptoms that arise should be treated as soon as possible. Most often, stress manifests itself as:

Physiological problems

Heart disease

Chronic stress can increase the risk of heart disease, the risk of high blood pressure, and cholesterol levels are often raised. The long-term stress response overloads the heart and vascular system. People who live under stress for long periods of time are statistically more likely to suffer a heart attack or arrhythmia.

Digestive problems

Stress can also cause problems such as stomach aches, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and in some cases ulcers. There is a direct connection between the brain and the stomach, and it is not for nothing that the Hungarian expression „gyomoridegem van” (I have a stomach nerve) is used.

The most common stress-induced indigestion is indigestion that manifests itself in excretory problems (diarrhoea or constipation) without any other specific cause.

Reduced immunity

Constant stress weakens the immune system, leading to more frequent infections and illnesses. Often the natural gut flora is also disrupted by chronic stress, which can lead to further problems.

Sleep problems

Stress and anxiety can also cause sleep problems or insomnia. Since sleep is the body's primary form of regeneration, poor sleep affects overall health and energy levels. Long-term sleep problems can lead to more serious illnesses.

Emotional difficulties:

Emotional difficulties should never be underestimated, as they provide the boost (or lack of it) that we need to get on with our daily lives. Emotions are often underestimated, but getting our emotional lives in order should be a top priority.

Anxiety and depression

Chronic stress can lead to anxiety disorders and depression. Constant worry and pressure can cause feelings of hopelessness and isolation.

Mood swings

Stress often leads to irritability, frustration and quick temper tantrums. This can have a negative impact on one's personal relationships.

Burnout

Prolonged exposure to stress without adequate rest can lead to burnout, resulting in a complete loss of energy and motivation.

Mental problems

Sluggishness, listlessness

Chronic stress can affect concentration, memory and decision-making skills. Prolonged exposure to stress can make it difficult to think clearly and solve problems.

Reduced productivity

If someone constant stress often feels overwhelmed and finds it difficult to complete tasks, which reduces productivity at work and in your personal life. Everyday tasks also seem difficult and impossible.

What is an effective way to manage stress?

There are many effective ways to manage stress. By trying these, we can help ourselves to cope with stress, but it is important to be aware that the best stress cure varies from person to person.

Physical activity

Exercise is one of the best ways to manage stress. Physical activity helps release endorphins, the happy hormones that improve mood and reduce stress. Exercise also helps not only to organise your thoughts, but also to increase your body's resilience.

Relaxation and meditation

For those techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing are also effective in fighting stress. These practices help to quiet the mind.

Personal support

A good friend, trusted family member or partner can also help. Spending time with them, talking through problems is often underestimated, but it is also a very effective way of dealing with stress.

Healthy eating and sleep

A balanced diet and adequate rest are essential for maintaining physical and mental health. Overeating, unhealthy foods and lack of sleep often exacerbate our existing illnesses and symptoms.

Stress management with Ayurvedic therapy

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healing science, offers a comprehensive approach to stress management. Ayurveda believes that stress is the result of imbalances in the doshas, the three life forces (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) that control physical and mental functions. Ayurveda aims to balance these doshas to ensure harmony of body and mind.

Ayurvedic herbs

Ashwagandha: This powerful adaptogenic herb is one of the best known Ayurvedic remedies for stress reduction. Ashwagandha helps the body adapt to stress by reducing cortisol levels and boosting the immune system.

Brahmi: known for its calming effects on the nervous system. Brahmi improves mental clarity and promotes restful sleep.

Tulsi (holy basil): tulsi is known in Ayurveda as the „elixir of life”. It helps calm the mind, improve mood and reduce stress.

Ayurvedic therapies

Panchakarma

A panchakarma Sanskrit for „five actions”, which refers to the five Ayurvedic purification processes. Panchakarma is a holistic treatment method that helps rid the body of accumulated toxins. Thus, panchakarma does not target the existing symptoms but the root cause of our symptoms. The treatment relieves the body of harmful substances and helps to achieve mental balance through movement therapy and massage.

Shirodhara

In this therapy, warm oil is continuously poured on the forehead, which has a calming effect on the nervous system. Shirodhara helps relieve anxiety, improves sleep quality and promotes relaxation. It is part of the panchakarma treatment programme at the Calendula Clinic.

Abhyanga massage

Many people call it by its simpler name, oil massage known as. It is a hot oil ayurvedic body massage, which improves blood circulation and calms the body and mind.

Ayurvedic lifestyle principles

Ayurveda also recommends lifestyle changes to manage stress. The basic principles include regular practice of meditation and yoga, a balanced diet, a regular daily routine and adequate quantity and quality of sleep. The Ayurvedic approach to stress focuses on prevention and long-term solutions.  

Although stress is an inevitable part of life today, knowing how to manage stress is key to maintaining physical and mental health. Ayurvedic medicine offers holistic solutions involving the use of herbs, massages and therapies. Contact us at our Calendula Clinic and we will be happy to help you combat stress and find peace of mind.