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“Stress Reduction”

By Karen Stauffer
Nutritionist

Performing can be stressful, even when you enjoy it. Some stress is actually beneficial, keeping the organism on its toes, so to speak. But when stress begins to erode your temper and your health, it’s time to do something.

First, identify what’s causing your stress. Is it anything that could be eliminated? (No, do not take out a “hit” contract on annoying relatives!) Simplifying your life can help, if you’re spread too thin. Reserve a small amount of time just for yourself.

Relaxation exercises, yoga, and meditation can all help. Some people find vigorous exercise to be relaxing! Do something totally different from your usual routine occasionally.

Before you reach for a tranquilizer, try a hot bath and a cup of herb tea. Hops, Chamomile and Valerian are relaxing.

Kava-Kava is my favorite relaxing herb. Capsule, tea or powder will help relax muscles and mind.

B vitamins can strengthen the nervous system. The complete B complex with extra pantothenic acid will be helpful if not taken too close to bedtime (otherwise it can keep you up).

A calcium and magnesium supplement can do more for you than build strong bones and teeth. Calcium is one of the first supplements to try for high blood pressure (in some cases stress can raise blood pressure). Magnesium relaxes muscle cramps and helps keep the heart beating in the proper rhythm.

Homeopathic Calms tablets from Hylands are safe for everyone to use, and melt quickly under the tongue. There’s also an extra strength Calms Forte.

GABA produces calming neurotransmitters and may be valuable for people having panic attacks. This is available in tablet or fast acting lozenges.

Stage fright is a form of stress unique to performers. Surprising numbers of them suffer, even seasoned, successful ones. Some find nausea and sweaty palms to be the primary symptoms. Others have heart palpitations and faintness. Doctors often prescribe drugs, but it’s difficult to take them and not lose that stimulated edge that can mean the difference between an uninspired performance and a great one.

Depending on symptoms, homeopathics can be a good choice because they lack side effects. A homeopathic physician can make recommendations.

Flower remedies are similar to homeopathic medicines, and are primarily used for mental and emotional problems. Most brands provide a guide to their uses. Bach and Deva are two popular brands. The most well known of the Bach products is called Rescue Remedy, used for sudden trauma. This is in the form of drops that go under the tongue or can be mixed with water and sipped.

Remember that excessive stress can lower the immune response, so you may need an immune booster during stressful periods. Echinacea is the most well known, and there are many others.

Adaptogens like Arctic root (rhodiola rosea) and Siberian Ginseng (eleutheroccus senticosus) can alleviate the effects of stress. These would be taken regularly to help prevent “burnout.”

Don’t overlook the benefits of a good massage, with or without aromatherapy and soothing music. Forcing the muscles to relax can actually work backwards and help calm the mind. If you’ve had a massage and didn’t like it, try another practitioner. Some are better than others.

People react differently to stress, so a consultation with a nutritionist or naturopath may point you in the right direction.

Karen Stauffer

"River of Life Natural Foods"

1-800-651-3820

KarenStauffer@professorpooch.com

[Karen's advice is not meant to replace the advice of a physician. 
If you think you have a medical problem, see your doctor]