8 Simple Ways to Calm Your Mind During Stressful Times
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Parris Kidd
Do you find youself frequently filled with worry, fear, or occasional anxious thoughts?
You aren’t alone.
In today’s fast-paced world, many people experience periods of stress.
Since stress affects millions of American adults, let’s take a closer look at some of the best ways to address it…naturally.
8 Simple Strategies to Help Ease Your Stress and Calm Your Mind
1. It’s Okay If You’re Not Okay
For starters, acknowledge that it’s completely normal to experience a certain amount of stress and worry in life. In fact, having a degree of healthy fear can be a good thing. Studies show that the “don’t worry, be happy” people—like those who crowd the beaches in Florida every Spring Break—may die the earliest from accidents and preventable illnesses.¹ Having appropriate levels of worry actually may help keep you safe.
2. Stay Connected
By nature, we’re social creatures who need connection. Having strong social connections can help give you a sense of purpose and belonging. Since it’s so important to stay connected with others, be sure to surround yourself with people who are happy, upbeat, kind and who challenge you to be the best version of yourself.
3. Slow Your Breathing
Diaphragmatic breathing is an effective way to overcome stress and quiet your mind.² This simple relaxation method can be done anywhere, anytime. Taking deep breaths can help relax your muscles, relieve tension, and allow your brain to function better. Do this simple exercise anytime you feel stressed or on edge.
4. Kill the ANTs
Did you know mental hygiene is just as important as physical hygiene? Learn to disinfect your thoughts by killing the ANTs (automatic negative thoughts) that steal your happiness. Anytime you feel nervous, stressed, or panicky, write down what you’re thinking, then talk back to the ANTs. This robs them of their power and puts you in control of your thoughts and moods. It’s easy—just grab a piece of paper and write down what has you concerned today.
5. Get Hip to Hypnosis
You might think hypnosis is just for stage acts, but the medical community has long viewed it as a serious science. Using hypnosis has been shown to help reduce stress, lower feelings of anxiousness, and enhance mood.³ Give it a try in the comfort of your own home with a hypnosis audio.
6. Loving Kindness Meditation
This easy meditation is intended to boost positive emotions and reduce negative feelings. Just sit quietly and allow your stress to melt away as you breathe deeply (see #3 above). Then say the following phrases aloud or silently to yourself:
- May I be safe and secure.
- May I be healthy and strong.
These meditations can help reduce stress and improve your overall outlook on life, so give it a try.
7. Consider Nutritional Support
Your body’s nutrient levels can be depleted during times of excessive stress. One of the best ways to replenish nutrients and fuel your brain is with high-quality supplements.
Everyday Stress Relief is a premier stress-reducing supplement that harnesses the power of five natural ingredients to help soothe your frazzled nerves.*
GABA Calming Support boosts GABA to help calm your brainwaves and pump the brakes on anxious and fearful thoughts.*
Serotonin Mood Support contains key nutrients that promote serotonin balance and a sense of calmness.* Significant research shows saffron can help boost serotonin and benefit mood.*⁴
Happy Saffron Plus has three ingredients designed to improve mood, help you cope with feelings of anxiousness, and enhance focus under mental strain.*
8. Know Your Brain Type
Every brain is different and should be treated as such. Based on the brain imaging work conducted at Amen Clinics, we’ve identified 16 Brain Types. To discover your Brain Type, take the free online Brain Health Assessment. It only takes about 5 minutes to complete and you’ll get a targeted treatment plan, including lifestyle tips and recommended supplements for your specific Type, to help optimize brain function so you can better cope with stress.
Calm Your Mind…Naturally!
These are just a few of the many practical, natural techniques that can help keep your body’s production of the stress hormone cortisol in check. Adopting these healthy tips can help reduce stress levels and increase your inner calm.
Give them a try today!
Note: while it’s natural to feel the effects of stress, if you’re experiencing intense, ongoing stress, you might consider seeking out the support of a health coach or trained counselor.
At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of supplements, please visit us at BrainMD.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
References:
- Diener, E., & Chan, M. Y. (2011). Happy people live longer: Subjective well-being contributes to health and longevity. Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being, 3(1), 1–43.
- JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports 17(9):p 1855-1876, September 2019. | DOI: 10.11124/JBISRIR-2017-003848
- Karrasch, L., Koole, S. L., Funk, B., Kettner, H., & Pittig, A. (2023). Effects of relaxation hypnosis on mood and state anxiety in chronically stressed individuals: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 92(2), 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1026/1616-3443/a000679
- Shafiee, M., Arekhi, S., Omranzadeh, A., & Sahebkar, A. (2018). Saffron in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders: Current evidence and potential mechanisms of action. Nutrition Reviews, 77(8), 557–578. https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuz034