Anxiety is a feeling of nervousness and worry, and everyone experiences it. It only becomes a problem when it interferes with your everyday life.

If anxiety is causing you to have trouble participating in normal activities, it's time to treat it, but you don't have to rely on pharmaceuticals. Research has shown that holistic approaches are often as effective as medication and have fewer negative side effects.

Meditation

Meditation is the ancient practice of quieting your mind and slowing your thoughts. It teaches you how to let go of the negative thoughts that accompany anxiety, relieving many of its symptoms. Supplement the experience with candle warmers and calming music. With time and practice, you'll experience reduced feelings of worry and stress even when you're not actively meditating.

Exercise

Exercise boosts energy levels and triggers the release of serotonin, a "feel-good" hormone that leaves you relaxed and happier. Studies show that regular exercise can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety over time and just one intense session can relieve them for several hours.

Exercise also promotes better sleep, and it's easier to manage anxiety when you're well-rested.

Healthy Diet

Diet alone can't cure anxiety, but eating well can relieve many of its symptoms. Consuming several servings of fruits and vegetables daily and reducing your intake of sugar, alcohol, and caffeine keeps your blood sugar in check and energy levels high. One of the benefits of essential oils is that they can help balance the intake of certain vitamins. When your body is functioning properly, feelings of irritability and worry decrease.

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as walnuts, wild-caught salmon, and spinach, will relieve symptoms as well. Research has shown a link between anxiety and low levels of omega-3. You can only get it through food and vitamins; your body can't synthesize it, which is why it's vital to include it in your diet.

Herbal Supplements

Herbal supplements may help, but check with a medical professional before consuming them.

L-glutamine and L-histamine are amino acids that may relieve stress, and the amino acid GABA has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a highly effective way to relieve anxiety naturally and is the most widely-used therapy approach for treating it. It teaches thinking skills that show you how to modify the negative thought patterns and behavior that accompany anxiety.

Anxiety doesn't have to control your life, and you don't have to take prescription medications to curb it. Lifestyle changes such as eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and practicing meditation can help. Therapy and herbal supplementation may provide additional relief, as well.