10 Ways to Encourage Relaxation

(Please note that the suggests below are not to be used as cures for any medical conditions, but only as supplements. Always consult a doctor if you are currently receiving medical treatment.)

1. Green Tea: slowly sipping green tea provides the body with L-Theanine, an amino acid that helps to transmit nerve impulses to the brain. The effect on the body is calming without sedation, reducing the perception of stress and improving attention.
2. Chocolate: an ounce and a half of dark chocolate 70% cocoa or higher eaten daily for two weeks helps reduce cortisol, a stress hormone, and catecholamines, the "fight or flight" hormones that are overactive in highly stressed individuals. Additionally dark chocolate contains chemicals that mimic the hormones that produce the feeling of love.
3. Honey: one tablespoon of raw honey eaten off the spoon or stirred in warm (not hot) tea has relaxing effects and can promote better sleep. Raw honey is also has anti-inflammatory effects, particularly in inflammation in the brain.
4. Gum: chewing on a piece of gum can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. It can also increase alertness and blood flow in the brain. Please not: if you have jaw-related stress symptoms (TMJ) this may not be the best choice, as it could increase stress and fatigue in the jaw.
5. Milk: 6-8 oz of warm milk at bedtime is a time-tested remedy for improving sleep and helping relax the body. The protein lactium lowers the blood pressures which calms the body and potassium eases muscle tension. Add honey and benefit doubly!
6. Almonds: snack on almonds, which are high in magnesium, which helps calm nerves, muscles, veins and arteries, promoting a whole body relaxation. Magnesium also helps ease depression, fatigue and irritability.
7. Citrus: oranges, grapefruit and other citrus fruits high in vitamin C help reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels. It also helps lower blood pressure and increase immunity (which is lowered when stressed).
8. Blueberries: snack on blueberries, which contain antioxidants and phytonutrients that help improve reactions to stress by increasing white blood cells that fight free radicals and boost immunity.
9. Cashews: these nuts are high in zinc, and essential mineral that can help reduce anxiety and improve mood and concentration for those who are low in zinc. Those not low in zinc will benefit from healthy Omega-3s and protein that cashews provide.
10. Fermented foods: studies have shown that eating fermented foods such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, etc. reduces the symptoms of stress associated with social anxiety. Additionally fermented foods improves healthy gut bacteria which aids digestion and helps facilitate production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which helps regulate mood and promote feelings of wellbeing.