Stress is everywhere in life. Nowadays, as the coronavirus pandemic is forcing more and more people indoors, it’s impossible not to feel a little worried about the situation. Unfortunately, keeping a cool head under pressure is not easy. It doesn’t help to tell yourself that you should relax. The truth is, the situation is worrying. People who are prone to anxiety and chronic stress are the first to be affected by cabin fever. Self-isolation is a challenging experience that can reduce the virus’s spread, but it dramatically impacts your mental health.
Therefore, understanding how to make your everyday life as stress-free as possible can be a game-changer for your health. Maintaining regular physical activity plays a significant role in your stress management strategy. You should also try to stick to a routine that can schedule your working hours and your sleep. But did you know that your diet could also help you reduce stress levels, not only during self-isolation but in any situation?
Numbing is not canceling
You can make conscious decisions to numb your anxiety through your diet. However, these are unlikely to be healthy. Excessive consumption of numbing substances, such as alcohol or even hard substances, can provide relief at first. But it is at the risk of developing a harmful addiction. While there is effective and discreet treatment available, such as outpatient treatment for drug addiction, the process is likely to cause high stress. Indeed, once you remove the numbing sensation, your mind and body are exposed to increased pressure during the withdrawal process.
Help your brain relax
While you can’t numb your brain without medicated treatment, you can rely on natural and plant-based treatments to achieve a similar result. Herbal teas, such as chamomile, for instance, can help your mind and body to unwind. You can also consider the addition of CBD oil to your diet. It is highly effective against anxiety disorders, as it reduces the brain response to triggers, ultimately calming down your mind.
Eat yourself calm
Can a meal induce relaxation? The process of cooking is, in itself, a source of joy and inner peace. Additionally, you can focus your attention on foods that actively fight stress. Whole grains such as brown rice can increase your serotonin levels, aka the hormone that is responsible for boosting your mood and decreasing stress. All carbs have a similar effect on the body; however, complex carbs are a healthier option as they don’t affect your blood sugar. Avocados are a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce stress and anxiety. You can pair them with fatty fish such as salmon to maximize the effect!
Ban unhealthy cravings
Last but not least, comfort foods can have a negative effect in the long term. While you might think that giving in to your craving and eating that yummy donut is going to make you feel better, the effect is short-lived. In the long term, sugar- and fat-loaded cravings increase your fatigue levels and generate stress. While you can indulge once in a while, make moderation the golden rule of your anti-stress diet!
A healthy diet can do a lot of good for your immune system. But it can also improve your mental health. Indeed, foods rich in complex carbs, omega-3 fatty acids, and soothing vitamins can help your body relax. Additionally, you can also use herbal remedies to find inner peace.
