When we are stressed, nature can be a wonderful help. How do we find peace again with simple ideas? Stress-related illnesses have increased by almost 90 per cent in the past 15 years. Stress is generally not a problem – as long as stress and relaxation phases alternate and are in a good relationship with each other. When we are stressed, our body releases a cocktail of hormones that cause blood pressure and heart rate to rising, breathing becomes faster, and blood is enriched with more oxygen and is diverted to the muscles. In this way, more energy is generated in the short term. If we don’t constantly break it down, constant stress leads to muscle tension and can contribute to cardiovascular diseases and depression. Here are some ways to deal with stress.

1. Drink tea! Herbs such as valerian, lavender, hemp and chamomile blossoms are particularly suitable for enjoying a moment of peace. Not only the power of the herbs is good for us, but the moment when we sit down with a cup of tea and enjoy peace also counts.
2. Enjoy some simple things. This doesn’t necessarily mean hours of Netflix sessions that distract us from the madness (of course they’re allowed to!), but deliberate breaks away from digital devices. Meditation, a cup of tea on the sofa with a view of the garden, a book that gives us new ideas, a bath with relaxing herbal additives. Everything good for us has to be regularly in the diary.
3. Find an activity you love. Learning how to relax is helpful, especially if you want to manage stress. A new hobby is one way that also helps you learn a new skill. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you enjoy the activity. Think about what kind of activity you would enjoy – maybe it’s painting, music, gambling on Hellspin or gardening.
4. Laugh more often. Laughter is not only good for the soul but also the body. Laughter not only lowers your stress hormones but also your blood pressure. If you’re having a fun and interesting time, it’s unlikely that you’re under a lot of stress at the same time. That’s why it’s so important to plan your pastime and visit interesting places and activities.
5. Interact with pets. Pets are not only associated with reduced stress levels, but also other human health benefits. Owners of cats, dogs, parrots and other pets find it easier to focus. Animals also have a positive effect on blood pressure and help avoid feelings of loneliness.
6. Add cortisol-lowering foods to your diet. Nutrition not only affects your body’s metabolic processes but also your cortisol levels. Some foods, such as sugar, can increase the amount of the stress hormone. Foods rich in polyphenols help reduce stress hormone levels. For example, the long-term health benefits of drinking green tea have been scientifically proven – drinking just half a glass a day reduces the risk of depression and dementia.
7. Spend more time in nature. Big city noise, rushing and traffic jams are a part of many people’s lives, but not everyone is aware of the degree to which this atmosphere negatively affects physical and mental health. Even a park or nature reserve within the city limits is a great opportunity to recuperate and relax.

In conclusion, there is no universal method of dealing with stress – after all, everybody and the brain are unique. Good sleep, proper nutrition and regular exercise are the basis for a healthy body. Now you also know what other scientifically proven ways there are to prevent and reduce stress levels.