April 5, 2008

Natural Alternative Treatments For Panic Attacks

I recently read a post on Google News. It was about alternative treatments for panic attacks. It reminded me of  my  old days. I'm inspired with that and writing about the natural alternative treatments. I prefer them a lot because we needn't go anywhere, and they are very soothing.

Here are the natural alternative treatments I used for my panic attacks… 

1. Kava (Piper methysticum)

It's an excellent herbal medicine for stress, insomnia, anxiety and panic attacks. I grind it into powder, mix with water and then I drink it. First I found it hard to swallow (very bitter taste). But I added some honey for good flavor. I also take 'Yogi Tea' brand of Kava tea.

I get good relaxation with it easily without interrupting mental clarity. Great calming effect!

But I heard that the FDA has recently issued warnings on kava due to its adverse effects on the liver (I'm very good so far).

2. Relaxation Exercises

I do regular relaxation exercises. For example, progressive relaxation technique. Doing this exercise, I relax every part of my body from head to toe.

I also stretch, tighten and relax my muscles periodically throughout the day. This makes my body and mind relax. Our body is like a mirror that reflects our mind every second.

So I give lot of importance to doing meditation, yoga and breathing exercises (If you want to meditate deeply, have a look a this Calming Words book).

3. Healthy and Balanced Diet

I realized that having right foods are the best natural treatment for panic attacks.

I avoid taking caffeine and alcohol. I also avoid salt, sugar and diary products.

I include lot of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B complex rich items. So my nervous system works well. They also help producing 'neurotransmitters. These are the most important chemicals which relay messages between our nerve cells.

So I include in my food whole grains, papaya, cantaloupe and avocado. And I take Vegetables like carrots, onions, garlic, broccoli and sprouts. If you want to know more details about balanced diet, go through The Linden Method.

Finally, I never forget to shift my concentration onto my breathing however busy I'm.

If I sense I'm about to get the panic attack feeling, I inhale slowly to a count of four. Then I wait for four counts. And I exhale slowly to a count of four. And I wait for another four counts. I repeat the cycle until the attack passes.

I hope sharing my experience may help you a lot. Follow the natural alternative treatments and relieve yourself from the panic attacks.

 

 

Filed under Panic Attacks by Mike

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