The UK has been in strict lockdown since 23rd March. This period itself has been highly stressful and now the easing of lockdown – including the return to work and the opening of schools for children – is adding to the already high stress levels of the UK population, with both workers and parents feeling concerned about the risks associated with Coronavirus.
Whilst anti-anxiety prescriptions in the United States rose by 34.1% over the month of March, it would seem that Britons are deciding to take a more holistic approach. Research by EOS Scientific has found that around a quarter of Brits would like to alleviate symptoms of stress holistically. Here, EOS Scientific break down the best five holistic remedies that can be adopted, even in lockdown:
Meditation
Meditation has gained popularity in recent years, especially in lockdown. Meditation can produce a state of relaxation and a peaceful mind. During meditation, you focus your attention and eliminate the stream of jumbled thoughts that may be crowding your mind and causing stress. This process may result in enhanced physical and emotional well-being.
CBD Products
CBD oil works by stimulating the endocannabinoid system and balancing homeostasis in the body, and the substance has proven benefits for relieving ailments such as stress, anxiety and insomnia. For this reason, CBD products are on the rise and are appearing more and more in UK high streets and health shops.
Lavender Oil
Lavender essential oil is one of the most popular and versatile essential oils used in aromatherapy. Distilled from the plant Lavandula angustifolia, the oil promotes relaxation and studies have shown it can help treat anxiety, and insomnia.
Many use a lavender oil tincture or a calming room spray before bed to help them sleep.
Valerian Root
Valerian root is a common ingredient sold as supplements. Valerian has been used for centuries as an herbal remedy, and was used by the Ancient Greeks and Romans to help sure insomnia. It is thought in the modern world to help alleviate the symptoms of stress, too, by increasing gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA contributes to a calming effect in the body.
Exercise
Exercise is another common form of stress relief, which works by releasing good endorphins which in turn boost people’s moods and energy levels. Yoga is commonly adopted as a low-impact form of exercise.
Now that the Government has eased lockdown restrictions, a peaceful walk or run can help get those endorphins flowing. Try finding a scenic spot for an extra feel-good factor, or venturing out with another member of your household if safe to do so.
Simon Manthorpe, CEO of Eos Scientific – the UK’s leading CBD oil testing service – discusses why holistic remedies, such as CBD oil, have become more popular in the UK:
“It is well documented that CBD usage in the UK has risen exponentially over the past two years, with users increasing by over 100%, and we are witnessing another boom in popularity over the last two months.
As a robust compound, CBD oil can be taken in many different forms, ranging from edibles that are ingested directly, to topical serums such as muscle balms. With such versatility, people have found that there are endless ways to enjoy the benefits of CBD.
Studies into CBD have shown that it can help with stress and anxiety relief and can also help promote better sleep, making the compound all the more relevant right now. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system and helps to reduce the effects of anxiety, helping those of us experiencing stress during these difficult times with a little more peace of mind.”