Motive, Means and Opportunity: The Rise of Natural Healthcare

April marks Stress Awareness Month, a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness of the impact of stress on our physical and mental health, as well as providing an annual reminder of the importance of prioritising wellbeing and self-care. This year’s theme is Little By Little, which aims to demonstrate the transformative power of introducing small and sustainable habits into our daily lives to manage stress effectively. It is these easy-to-adopt actions that can greatly improve our overall mental health. Two small, positive steps to aid stress management that I am eager to highlight this month are the introduction of magnesium and Sceletium Tortuosum as part of a healthy lifestyle. Magnesium and stress management Magnesium is a mineral that plays an essential role in muscle function, nervous system regulation, energy production, and cardiovascular health. But, did you know, it is also highly effective in the alleviation of stress? Research published in the Journal of Research in Medical Sciences revealed that magnesium supplementation significantly reduced perceived stress levels by helping to regulate the release of stress hormones like cortisol – otherwise known as the “fight or flight” hormone. Similarly, magnesium supports neurotransmitter balance in the brain, in particular boosting the “happy hormone” serotonin, eases tension through its role in muscle relaxation, and improves sleep. Low magnesium levels, on the other hand, may contribute to imbalances in these neurotransmitters, leading to increased levels and effects of stress. How can I incorporate magnesium into my stress management routine? To harness the stress-relieving benefits of magnesium, introduce magnesium-rich foods into your diet, such as nuts, seeds, leafy greens, whole grains, and legumes. For those with mineral deficiencies or experiencing chronic stress, taking a magnesium supplement can also be beneficial. The team at The Natural Doctor are on-hand to provide advice and guidance before introducing a magnesium supplement into your lifestyle. Combining magnesium intake with relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can further enhance stress management efforts. Sceletium Tortuosum and stress relief Another natural remedy gaining attention for its stress-relieving properties is Sceletium Tortuosum, also known as “kanna” or “kougoed.” This succulent plant from South Africa has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples for its mood-enhancing and stress-reducing effects. Sceletium Tortuosum contains unique, naturally occurring organic compounds – otherwise known as alkaloids – that interact with the brain’s neurotransmitters to reduce cortisol and increase serotonin levels. Studies have also shown that Sceletium Tortuosum has anxiety-relieving properties with participants reporting feelings of calm, contentment, and improved emotional wellbeing. How can I use Sceletium Tortuosum to relieve stress? When considering using Sceletium Tortuosum for stress relief, it’s essential to do so responsibly. As sensitivity to supplements can vary from person to person, it is advisable to begin with a low dose and gradually increase if needed. While adverse effects are rare, some people may experience mild symptoms like nausea or dizziness. However, as with magnesium above, our team is here to support you with guidance for introducing Sceletium Tortuosum and advice for the right dosage for you, which is particularly important for those who are already taking medication that impacts serotonin levels. Stress Awareness Month serves as a timely reminder to put our mental health first. By harnessing the stress-relieving benefits of magnesium and Sceletium Tortuosum, we can empower ourselves to take positive steps to manage stress more effectively and improving our emotional wellbeing every day, little by little. To learn more about introducing magnesium and Sceletium Tortuosum into your lifestyle or discuss any concerns relating to stress management, please feel free to contact us for a confidential chat. References: