The keys to calm

Life sometimes gets just a bit too fast and furious. When it does, nature comes to the rescue with a stash of stress-relieving herbs.

What happens when the going gets tough? We generally keep calm and carry on. But while a “can do” approach to life is admirable, it carries a downside. It’s called burnout, and it can happen to the best of us. We’re all aware of the consequences of too much stress. But knowing we should relax and slow down when things start getting out of proportion isn’t the same as being able to do it. Just how do we continue to live life to the max without maxing out? 

 

One way is to support our nervous systems is via nature’s bounty.  So much on offer from nature - fresh fruit & veges (gardening your own bounty), herbs, being in nature, forest walks, beach walks, grounding (taking of your shoes and letting the earth sink in around your toes)

 

Undoubtedly one of the most important ways to reduce the side effects of stress, nervous exhaustion and worry is to sleep well and eat healthy, meditate, and enjoy time out – whether you like to listen to music, immerse yourself in a hobby or just bury your nose in a good book.  Sometimes even with the best of intentions, we need some extra help. Nature’s toolbox of natural herbs that can help soothe, calm, and nourish the nervous system. They are mild and gentle and generically called “nervines”. Nervine herbs include valerian, catnip, passionflower, skullcap, St John’s Wort, lemon balm and chamomile. These herbs are commonly available as a herbal infusion, tablet, or capsule supplement, or as a tincture.

 

Put the jug on…

Herbal brews can be enjoyed any time of day unless it is Green Tea (which does contain caffeine), so give yourself a mini ‘time-out’ and enjoy a cuppa.

 

Sleep on it

Lemon balm, valerian root, chamomile, catnip, skullcap, and passionflower are herbs traditionally used to soothe worry, calm the mind and support both rest and sleep. 

 

*Only take supplements and herbs as directed and if you are taking any medication, please check with your healthcare professional and always read the label.

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Vitamin and mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet.