Effective Alternatives for Nervous Tension

 

The most common ailment is the cause of the majority of all complaints in our civilized world.  Stress seems to be growing in popularity these days and it is almost impossible to meet someone who is not in possession of stress.  Nervous tension is quickly becoming the latest fad although, despite its popularity, its about as coveted as the flu.  There are so many poisons on the market with fancy names that are said to help relax, and to calm the nerves.  Unfortunately, their negative side-effects are usually worse than any of their positives.  I guess they may be helpful to those who don’t mind some diarrhea with their relaxation.

            First, before jumping right in to some effective natural cures for stress and nervous tension, get to know you nervous system a little better.  For our purposes, the two subdivisions of the nervous system that are of most importance are the adrenergic and the cholinergic subdivisions.  The adrenergic nervous system relies upon adrenal compounds for proper functioning while the cholinergic nervous system relies on acetylcholine for proper functioning.  The adrenergic system is in control during times of arousal, activity, and alertness and the cholinergic system takes control during periods of rest, sleep, and relaxation.  When the adrenergic nervous system remains in control for too long, the adrenaline compounds can cause damage.  This is one reason why stress is so unhealthy.

 

Meditations for Stress Release

            The most effective meditations for relieving stress include concentration and emotion.  Lie down, or sit comfortably and unplug the phone.  Concentrate for a while on your breathing.  Feel the air as it enters your nose, and travels to your lungs, many people say to focus on the breath, but it is not enough to simply focus.  I find that it is much better to feel the air as it enters, then exits. 

 

Herbs for Stress Relief

Valerian has been used for centuries to calm the nerves, relieve pain, and facilitate deep sleep.  Valerian has been proven to be a sedative, improve coordination, increase concentration, and improve energy levels while aiding deep relaxation.

Passion Flower is often used to tranquilize and calm the nerves and has been used for these purposes for over 200 years. 

Wood Betony is one of the best relaxants and headache remedies used by European and American herbalists. 

Chamomile is an excellent aid to sleep and relaxation.  A hot cup of chamomile tea quickly dissolves away stress, and tastes great with some raw honey.