When you’re dealing with anxiety or depression, it can feel like there is nothing that can take you away from that dark place. Although it can feel impossible at times, different remedies work for different people and it’s always worth experimenting. You might just find something that changes your life for the better.
There’s nothing wrong with going on prescribed medication, but it’s not for everyone. Alternatively, you might be on medication and looking further for ways to continue to boost your mental health. Whatever has lead you here, take a read of some of our alternative therapy ideas that you should try out.
CBD oil
This is an alternative medicine that is currently thriving. We don’t know when we first saw CBD, but ever since we can’t stop. CBD comes in a variety of forms and derives from the cannabis plant, without the psychoactive properties. Organic CBD tincture can improve mood for some, as well as help with ailments such as anxiety, pain, depression and insomnia.
Aromatherapy
This is a form of healing and relaxation by the means of smells. Essential oils are usually used in this practice. Certain aromas, like lavender, chamomile, bergamot, and eucalyptus have different positive effects on our mood and mind. You may want to burn the oils, put it in your bath or dab a bit on your temples while you lie down.
If you’d like a more professional approach to this therapy, you can visit an aromatherapist. On the other hand, if you fancy giving this a try within the comfort of you own home, you can buy starter aromatherapy kits online.
Massage
This type of therapy doesn’t need much explaining. I’m not implying this will completely rid you of your anxiety or depression, yet regular massages can do the world of good. Having a massage is a good form of meditation. This is especially for those who aren’t keen on the conventional form of meditating.
Have a professional relieve the tension in your body and let yourself focus on what they are doing. Steady your breath and let yourself feel the release of tension on every exhale. Let this be a time to treat yourself, as well as leave busy and negative thoughts outside.
Yoga and meditation
You most likely will have heard about these two a lot. Yoga and meditation can be super effective in helping combat problems with anxiety and depression. The physical practice of each helps to calm the body and relax the mind. Also, these practices encourage compassionate and kind ethos, which will reinforce a positive attitude towards yourself.
Yoga is a form of moving meditation, so if you find meditation difficult, this may be better suited to you. Keep your phone out of reach, put some relaxing music on, and focus on your flow. You may just feel transformed after a gentle practice.
Reiki
Reiki is a Japanese therapy that focuses on the movement and balancing of energy through the touching of the body. You wouldn’t perform Reiki on yourself; a professional would need to do it. It is based upon our ‘life force energies’ and it aims to restore self-power.
According to the UK Reiki Federation, there are some interesting and in-depth science into how Reiki works. It doesn’t hurt to try!
Herbal medicine
Herbal medicine includes any form of medicine from: you guessed it, plants. This also includes traditional Chinese medicine. The ingredients of a herbal remedy varies, and each plant treats different needs. This is perceived as a natural and organic way to rebalance and revitalise the body.
Helen Bradfield did her degree in psychology at the University of Edinburgh. She has an ongoing interest in mental health and well-being.
