Stress Relief - (Part 2) - The Naturopathic Way

This is Part 2 of our Stress Relief series (Part 1 was interview with Jess Henley, released on January 6th).
In this episode, Sophie and Marie explain what stress does to your physiology and why it is important to tackle it before it becomes chronic and damages our health.
Wherever possible, our first advice would be to eliminate the source(s) of stress. But, in the real world, this might not be possible. so here are further measures that have been shown to help:
- cleaning up your diet: removing stimulants (caffeine, nicotine, sugar). Stimulants can disrupt wake/sleep cycles, but can also mimic symptoms of anxiety and thus increase feeling of anxiety (increased alertness, increased heart rate).
- aim for at least 5 portions of vegetables and day and 1 portion of fruit, especially those rich in antioxidants. Be sure to have adequate intake of good nutritional fats (essential for making hormones and cell membranes)
- aim for 2 L of water per day (including herbal teas)
- in terms of supplements, a multi B complex can help improve energy production, as well as neurotransmitter balance. Omega 3 have antidepressant effects, Vitamin C is used in large quantities by the adrenal glands (increased demand with stress). Magnesium helps decrease inflammation, and decrease anxiety. Zinc is a common nutritional deficiency and the requirements are increased by stress.

Herbs mentioned in this episode:
- adaptogens, including Siberian Ginseng, Rhodiola (stimulating adaptogens), Ashwagandha, Schisandra (more balancing adaptogens), Holy Basil (or Tulsi),  Gotu Kola (calming adaptogens).

Pukka Herbs (no affiliation) do an ashwagandha supplements:
https://www.pukkaherbs.com/uk/en/products/organic-supplements/wholistic-ashwagandha.html

And a tasty tulsi tea blend:
https://www.pukkaherbs.com/uk/en/products/organic-teas/tulsi-clarity.html

These products are widely available in the UK. Please follow dosages indicated on the box. 


Lifestyle medicine: 
- regular exercise: find something that suits your body and don't put extra pressure on yourself. 
- yoga is now used in clinical settings to help patients with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, etc. It helps reconnect your mind to your body and be more present. 
- a fool-proof bed time routine. Sleep is when your body and brain recover and restore themselves. A routine is key to fall asleep quicker (herbs are also wonderful helpers!)
- regular massages or hugs: release of oxytocin, which is a feel-good hormone
- gratitude journals have also been found to help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. 
- laughter ! 

As always, be sure to consult a registered professional if you have a health condition. 

Connect with us by email: sharingplantwisdom@gmail.com

On Instagram: @sharingplant wisdom 

Send us your comments and questions. 

Stay safe and healthy, 
Marie & Sophie