For randomly stressful situations, which now only happen once in a blue moon for me, I’ve created a list of go-to remedies.
1) Chamomile Tea
This once saved me from a near total meltdown. I’d already been sober for well over a year, but I woke up feeling strange and paranoid. I got 6 teabags and poured steaming water over them. Within 10 minutes, I felt like a different person – calm, collected and happy again (my normal state). I don’t recommend using 6 teabags at once all the time, but it’s proof that this remedy absolutely works. This is the brand I use.
2) Lemon Balm Extract
It blows my mind that more people don’t know about this herb. It should be a staple in addiction recovery, especially since it’s not addictive and it’s effects have been compared to benzodiazepines. I use this alcohol-free tincture.
3) Epsom Salt Bath
My friends make fun of me for taking baths, but this remedy is so effective that I simply don’t care what anyone else thinks. Both alcoholism and anxiety deplete magnesium, which is necessary for your central nervous system. Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate, which detoxifies your skin and instantly calms your nerves. Get a bag at your nearest supermarket and dump it in your bathtub with some hot water, switching to cooler water if you overheat easily. After about 15 minutes in the tub, your restlessness will simply evaporate.
4) Clary Sage Oil
The health benefits of this essential oil are well documented, and it has a reputation for reducing anxiety and promoting positive thoughts. Instead of ingesting it, I usually splash a few drops in my epsom salt bath. The aroma is potent but relaxing, similar to lavender, and it definitely brings the relaxing effect of the epsom salt to the next level.
5) Binaural Beats
Whether you’ve already learned to meditate or you’re just starting out, try listening to binaural beats during your sessions. There are a number of great channels on YouTube for this purpose, and research has linked these sounds with significant anxiety reduction. I usually take 20 minutes each day to sit down, put on my headphones, and focus on the sound patterns until I feel rejuvenated and ready to tackle the rest of the day. Check it out and see if it helps you channel your energy more effectively.
Be sure to check out these tips for getting a good night’s sleep.
