– Post by Love Wellness Advisor: Dr. Francis. Join the discussion and read more on The Love Club
Stress is a heightened state of activity and engagement. There are both good and bad types of stress. When negative stress continues for long periods of time there can be wear and tear on your nervous system and endocrine system that impacts the entire body and your health. Some of the symptoms associated with prolonged and unrelenting stress are anxiety, depression, fatigue, muscle tension, headaches, digestive problems, insomnia, and interpersonal issues with friends, family, and work.
It's important to note that is common is very different from what is normal. There are many natural and alternative remedies to reduce and alleviate the symptoms. Try my Backstage Alternatives to lower stress and improve brain function:
Nourish and Hydrate
Increase protein, fruits and veggies, and dark leafy greens with meals, while avoiding toxins like alcohol, sugar, caffeine, refined white flour, and artificial sweeteners. Be sure to drink 8–10 glasses of water or herbal tea daily.
Supplement
Reduce cortisol, increase serotonin, and calm anxiety with 5-HTP (50 mg daily), B-complex daily (in the a.m., per bottle dosage), magnesium glycinate (500 mg daily), omega-3 or flaxseed oils (1 tablespoon daily), theanine (100 mg daily), tyro- sine (100 mg daily), and vitamin C (1,000 mg daily). Add herbal adaptogens for stress like ashwagandha, ginseng, licorice root, maca, nettles, oatstraw, rhodiola rosa, and Siberian ginseng.
Treat
Daily acupressure on the ear, forehead, or temple (it’s even better when you can convince someone else to do it for you), along with weekly acupuncture, cranial sacral therapy, massage, Reiki, yoga, and coaching or therapy sessions. Exercise and meditate a minimum of 15 minutes each daily as well as spend time with friends and family. Nightly Epsom salt baths just before bed will help you calm before sleep.
With love,
Dr. G
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