I see so many moms have an increase in anxiety symptoms around this time of year.  I see moms feeling overwhelmed, with racing thoughts.  They may feel restless, nauseous, and have difficulty sleeping.  When you are feeling this way, the best thing to do is reach out to a naturopathic doctor to investigate and get to the root cause of the anxiety symptoms.  However, sometimes you need a little support along the way.   A few of my favorite ways to support anxiety are with supplements, herbs, homeopathic remedies, and lifestyle changes.***

Supplements:

L-theanine: Theanine is an amino acid found in tea that decreases mental and physical stress. It is a favorite of mine because it creates a relaxed, alert state of mine.

Magnesium: Unfortunately, the majority of us are deficient in magnesium and magnesium has a huge impact on mood. Taking magnesium can decrease many of the symptoms associated with anxiety including tension and insomnia.

Herbs:

Melissa officinalis: Lemon balm tea is liquid sunshine. Even smelling it can be uplifting. It is also phenomenal for symptoms of anxiety such as restlessness.

Avena sativa: Milky oat seed is food for the nervous system. It is a very mild herb that can help with chronic insomnia due to anxiety and a feeling of nervous exhaustion. It is best taken long term.

Homeopathic remedies:

Homeopathy is based on the person’s individual symptoms, so there is not going to be a one-sized fits all remedy. A few common remedies that I use for anxiety are below, but there are hundreds!

Arsenicum album: Indicated for anxiety with restlessness. They may be anxious about their own health and like company nearby when anxious.

Gelsemium: Can be helpful if there is anticipatory anxiety. There may be diarrhea with the anxiety, and the person is often exhausted.

Phosphorous: Often there is anxiety about others and tons of fears. Often fears that something bad will happen to a loved one. They want people very close when feeling anxious.

Lifestyle:

Diet can have a huge impact on anxiety symptoms as can alcohol intake.  Pay attention to how your diet makes you feel. 

Breathing exercises: Finding a breathing exercise that works for you when you feel yourself getting overwhelmed can be very helpful. I like double exhale breathing (the exhale is twice as long as the inhale), but even just focusing on deep belly breaths for a few minutes can help.

Getting out in nature (without your phone): This is a double whammy. Being in nature can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, and unplugging can also help!

Exercise: Finding time to exercise if you’re feeling anxious is imperative! Even as little as one exercise session can lower symptoms for hours.

** This is for educational purposes only. See your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and before taking any supplement, herb, or homeopathic remedy.

Need more support?  Send me an email at kate@wholehealthbaby.com to get started and see this blog post about surviving the holidays.

Dr. Kate Purvis is a naturopathic doctor, IBCLC, and holistic sleep coach.  She supports moms and their children all over the world with sleep, lactation, and health. She also mentors other practitioners in sleep, lactation, postpartum health, and homeopathy.