This post was developed through a partnership with BetterHelp.
Most people deal with stress and anxiety at some point. However, for some people, stress and anxiety are constant states. From money problems and job problems to childcare and current events, there’s no shortage of things to feel overwhelmed by. However, anxiety and stress can make it difficult to enjoy life.
There are several traditional treatment options to reduce anxiety and stress, such as therapy and medication. However, many people are interested in alternative solutions. In this blog, we explore five therapies worth investigating if you’re interested in alternative options or something you can add to your traditional treatment plan.
1. Mindfulness meditation
Mindfulness meditation is a practice of focusing your attention on the present moment without judgment. By cultivating awareness of your feelings, thoughts, and body sensations, mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety. Research has shown that regular practice of mindfulness meditation can lead to improvements in mood, emotional regulation and overall well-being. It too increases stress resistance and the ability to cope with it. If you need some help, consider finding guided meditations on YouTube or Spotify to guide you through the process.
2. Acupuncture
Acupuncture therapy is an ancient Chinese medicine in which needles are inserted into specific places in the body to promote balance and harmony. Although the exact mechanisms of acupuncture are not yet well understood, research suggests that it may help reduce anxiety and stress by stimulating the body’s natural pain relief mechanisms and regulating the nervous system.
3. Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a practice of using essential oils to promote physical, emotional and mental well-being. Certain essential oils, such as chamomile, lavender and bergamot, are known for their calming and stress-relieving properties and can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. You can use them by putting them in a diffuser and inhaling, or by diluting them and applying them to your skin.
4. Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback is a non-invasive therapeutic technique that aims to improve brain function and regulate the nervous system. During a neurofeedback session, electrodes are placed on the scalp to measure brain wave activity, which is then displayed in real time on a computer screen. Through training and feedback, people can learn to self-regulate their brain wave patterns, which can lead to improvements in stress, anxiety and other symptoms. For more information about neurofeedback, check out this resource from BetterHelp.
5. Exercise and movement
Physical activity causes a person’s body to release endorphins and can promote feelings of well-being. Movement therapies such as yoga, tai chi and qigong combine physical movement with mindfulness and breathwork, making them incredibly effective options for stress reduction and relaxation. Additionally, exercising in nature can increase stress relief even more, as exposure to the sun and being around greenery naturally reduces anxiety. So something like taking a nature walk or doing yoga in the park can be super helpful.
Takeaway
Managing stress and anxiety doesn’t have to rely solely on traditional approaches. Alternative therapies such as mindfulness meditation, acupuncture, aromatherapy, neurofeedback and exercise offer alternative and natural solutions that can complement your existing treatment plan. By exploring these strategies and discovering what works best for you and your life, you can take proactive steps toward greater well-being and peace of mind.
