Teas, including black, green, oolong, white, purple, and pu-erh, can all help fight symptoms of anxiety and stress. Since tea also contains caffeine, the combination of the caffeine and l-theanine is said to produce clarity and focus that helps soothe the mind and increase mental performance.
Researchers have found, for instance, that drinking tea lowers levels of the stress hormone cortisol. And evidence of long-term health benefits is emerging, too: drinking at least 100 millilitres (about half a cup) of green tea a day seems to lower the risk of developing depression and dementia.
Teas, including black, green, oolong, white, purple, and pu-erh, can all help fight symptoms of anxiety and stress. Since tea also contains caffeine, the combination of the caffeine and l-theanine is said to produce clarity and focus that helps soothe the mind and increase mental performance.
Many people with anxiety don't drink enough water, and this always makes anxiety symptoms worse. Drinking any type of beverage can be helpful, but tea, especially, is a healthy drink that has no additives that can contribute to poorer health. That makes it a smart drink to add to your diet.
From eating chocolate to meditating, there is a quick stress-relieving tactic for everyone. Slow, deep breaths can help lower blood pressure and heart rate. Try pranayama breathing, a yogic method that involves breathing through one nostril at a time to relieve anxiety.
Tea also contains the amino acid L-theanine, which promotes relaxation. In this sense, tea is unique in that the combination of caffeine and L-theanine means it may promote a sense of mindful alertness. It has also been suggested that drinking tea lowers levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
The best stress-relieving drinks include ginger, chamomile tea, valerian, black tea, coconut water, milk, green tea, coffee, lemon balm tea, water, and vegetable and fruit juice. Aromatherapy is another self-soothing practice shown to have benefits for mental health. You can read more about it here.
Tea can create an alert and calm state of mind.
Studies suggest that the amino acid L-theanine found in the tea plant alters the attention networks in the brain and has demonstrable effects on brain waves, leading to a feeling of relaxation without causing drowsiness.
Difficult experiences in childhood, adolescence or adulthood are a common trigger for anxiety problems. Going through stress and trauma when you're very young is likely to have a particularly big impact. Experiences which can trigger anxiety problems include things like: physical or emotional abuse.
Mental health conditions, such as depression, or a building sense of frustration, injustice, and anxiety can make some people feel stressed more easily than others. Previous experiences may affect how a person reacts to stressors. Common major life events that can trigger stress include: job issues or retirement.
There's no quick-fix cure for stress, and no single method will work for everyone. However, there are simple things you can do to change the common life problems that can cause stress or make stress a problem. These include relaxation techniques, exercise and talking the issues through.
Foods (and drinks) that are stress- and anxiety-provoking
If you're feeling stressed, try to avoid these foods: Alcohol. Caffeine. Sugary drinks and foods.
If you're like millions of Americans and suffer from anxiety symptoms, drinking tea can help calm your nerves and prevent full-blown episodes or panic attacks. Certain teas directly target the nervous system to decrease stress hormones and boost mood.