Kenroy.taylor@gmail.com, twitter: naturalkenny
Summer is the time for relaxation, recreation, vacation etc. all in an effort to relieve stress. Stress is an everyday phenomenon in our lives, whether you are pursuing your dream career, preparing for that special day or trying to recreate passion in your life.
According to Doctor Herbert Benson, in the book – The Relaxation Response; in a scale based interview of three hundred and ninety four individuals, the most stressful event in life is CHANGE.
Change is the constant element in our lives that delivers stress and therefore we need a solution, an antidote, a stress management remedy and a treatment that will bust up stress.
There are numerous kinds of natural stress busters that can be applied to our lives and these are applicable not only for the summer but throughout the year. In fact, these stress busters should be incorporated into our regular routines. Natural stress busters include:
Reflexology
This is a natural relaxation technique used to manage all types of stress. The method provides a non-invasive approach to stress management while promoting good health, balancing vital life-force (Chi) and homeostasis. By manipulating the reflex points of certain areas of the body usually on the feet and/or hands, the individual will immediately experience a reduction in their stress level.
Acupressure / Acupuncture
These techniques have been used for centuries to promote health and wellness. They both work by manipulating or stimulating the acupoints of the body. The acupoints of the body generate positive energy and they are used to balance vital life-force (chi), promote health, homeostasis and reduce stress levels.
Indian Head Massage
Like reflexology, this treatment is non invasive, and originated in India as the name suggests. It works by manipulating and also massaging the upper muscles and acupoints of the back, shoulders and especially the head of an individual. Thistreatment relaxes the mind and muscles of the head, neck and back which are all parts of the body commonly affected by stress.
Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT) / Meridian Psychotherapy
This is also referred to as emotional reflexology. This natural stress buster emphasizes the need for emotional freedom from stress and trauma. This treatment promotes health by reducing stress levels through a talk and tapping technique.
Yoga / Pilates / Tai Chi
These are subtle body exercises which reduce stress. They are not rigorous so the body does not interpret it as stress which sometimes occurs with strenuous exercises. Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi include some form of meditation and breathing techniques which also help in relaxing the body and in the process reduce stress.
Body Massage/Swedish Massage
Massages are not only very relaxing but they also improve health. By manipulating, rubbing and kneading an individual’s body and muscle, stress levels are greatly reduced and toxins are eliminated from the body. This treatment is a common one used to promote relaxation and in many cases is coupled with aromatherapy.
Herbal Remedies / Flower Remedies/Aromatherapy
Plants and flowers naturally promote feelings of wellness and happiness. Aromatherapy uses the fragrances and oils from plants and flowers to relax the body and mind. Herbal Remedies / Flower Remediesare plant based solutions such as teas, tinctures, soaps, oils etc. which support physical and emotional health and also reduce stress levels. These herbal remedies are usually combined with other natural stress busters to create a powerful treatment to fight against stress.
So this summer as you seek to reduce stress, try one of these natural stress busters and you are sure to not only feel more relaxed, but be more healthy.
