Many people are looking for natural solutions for our crazy 21st century lifestyle. While there’s nothing wrong with seeking help or using medication if needed, natural remedies can also be a big help and take the edge off. Tea is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety.
If you’re a coffee lover who isn’t crazy about tea, keep on reading my list of natural teas for stress and anxiety. I have some tweaks and suggestions for you to make it more appealing.
There’s a long and historic tradition of making and drinking tea across around the world. It’s a beloved beverage to many people and is often accompanied by a calming ritual or routine. Together, these work as a elaxing break that will reduce stress and gives you time to breath, think, and even meditate if you like.
Natural Tea Remedies for Stress and Anxiety
We’re all stressed out. And if you’re like me, you may have become a little too reliant on copious amounts of caffeine to turbo charge your day so that you can handle it all. And there’s nothing wrong with that, but why not try some teas to settle your spirit and see how that impacts your day?
Many people rely on antidepressants to deal with it all. And there’s nothing wrong with that if that’s what you need to cope. But I’d encourage you to explore natural remedies for stress relief as well.
Here’s some teas to consider:
Peppermint helps to reduce stress and relieves anxiety. Many people also enjoy it to soothe an upset stomach. (However, don’t drink peppermint tea if you’re pregnant.)
Chamomile tea is a quintessential favorite that can help to treat insomnia as well as reduce stress and anxiety.
Lemon balm can be found in many calming tea blends. It can help to reduce cortisol levels and relax the body.
Passion flower tea is another ingredient commonly found in relaxing teas and natural sleep aids. The flavon chrysin has important anti- anxiety benefits.
Kava tea. Kava tea is a very popular herbal remedy for anxiety. It may also help people with chronic pain as some support analgesic effects. However, proceed with caution because of it’s sedative nature and possible interaction with medications that you may be taking.
Green tea. Green tea has numerous health benefits. Not only that, it contains L-theanine, which is an amino acid that creates a calming effect.
How to Create Your Own Tea Ritual
In preparation, you can begin a mindful process as you put the water on to heat. As you’re waiting, do a mental check in.
- What does your mind need at this moment?
- What does your body need at this moment?
- What does your heart need at this moment?
Once you’ve done this bit of self examination, you can choose the best tea to support you at this moment. Now go ahead and boil your water and set out a favorite cup. Pick your tea (recommendations below) and set to making yourself a nice cup of tea.
Carry it to a comfortable spot, sit down, and enjoy the warmth of the cup in your hand. Inhale the fragrance of your tea, letting all the tension and anxiety leave your body. Bring your awareness to where you are right now and take that first sip. Take your time as you mindfully drink, melting the stress away.
Turn your tea time into your very own ritual. You might want to add a healthy treat, or browse a favorite book or magazine and spend a few minutes reading and browsing while you enjoy your cup. This is sacred time for you to relax and rejuvenate yourself.
How to Drink Tea If You Don’t Like It
If you’re used to coffee all the time and fizzy drinks, tea might be an acquired taste. What do you do if you’re not a tea drinker? My first suggestion would be to try some different teas and see what you like best. There’s something out there for just about anyone. My personal favorites include chai, vanilla nut and rooibos tea.
Coffee Can Calm You Down
If coffee’s your thing, there’s nothing wrong with it! Just know yourself. Many people can’t drink it past the afternoon or it might keep them up late. The ritual is the same idea..Brew yourself a good cup of coffee, make a cappuccino, or indulge in a cup of real hot chocolate topped with whipped cream or marshmallows. With just a little bit trial and error you’ll find the right drink for your very own stress busting ritual.
How to Use Tea to Reduce Stress and Anxiety
One thing to remember, when life get busy and stressful, it’s easy to let this simple little tea ritual go. But stressful times are when you need it the most. Be sure to make it a priority. Not only will it make you feel better but you’ll come back refreshed and able to solve problems easier and become more productive because of your little tea break.
In the end, by taking a few minutes for yourself (even if it’s just to make and enjoy a cup of tea) will help you to regroup. Try it out and see for yourself.
Here’s a few more tips. Keep everything for your tea ritual nearby. Have a nice tea cup and some tea in your desk at work, in the cupboard at home. Have one for travel so you can take your ritual with you wherever you go.