by Hannah Kuenzi –
After a long winter, many are left feeling that they need a natural boost to the mood. While increases in sunlight and time spent outside are great natural remedies to mood enhancement, it may not be enough for all. Luckily, as always, Mother Nature provides her children with the support they need to live their lives with the most positive energy, happiness, and fulfillment possible. Try incorporating the following natural remedies into your life when you are in need of a natural mood stabilizer.
Whole Foods
Walnuts, Almonds, and Cashews
Omega-3 fatty acids such as the ones found in walnuts aid in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. The magnesium-rich nuts such as almonds and cashews also have mood enhancing qualities, as magnesium has the ability to promote calmness. Cashews pack an added mood-boosting punch as they contain tryptophan, which is crucial in depression management due to its key role in serotonin uptake (1).
Avocado
Not only high in omega-3s, avocado also contains tyrosine which is a key component to the conversion of neurotransmitters responsible for mood, memory and mental clarity in the brain (2).
Blueberries
The antioxidants and Vitamin C found in blueberries have been shown to increase mood, decrease cortisol levels and reduce symptoms of depression (1).
Dark Chocolate
Like avocados, dark chocolate contains tyrosine which promotes the release of the pleasure hormone dopamine. The large quantities of cocoa found in dark chocolate also aid in increasing levels of serotonin, allowing us to feel heightened feelings of happiness (1).
Herbs
St. Johns Wort
A key ingredient in many of the Native Remedies emotional health products, St. Johns Wort has had a long-standing presence in herbal medicine since its usage for mood disorders by the ancient Greeks. St. Johns Wort provides support in reducing feelings of moodiness, depression, and anxiety (3). Use this herb when looking to promote feelings of emotional well being.
Skullcap
Traditionally used to support nervous system health, it helps to support the natural equilibrium normally present in the mind and contributes to the maintenance of a healthy attitude.
Gotu Kola
Used to encourage adequate blood flow to the brain and therefore support the supply of essential nutrients and oxygen, this herb is traditionally used to support a healthy brain and nervous system. Utilize Gotu Kola to support brain functions such as mental clarity and a healthy memory, as well as to maintain a balanced mood.
Lifestyle
Exercise
Exercise is proven to increase energy, better one’s mood, as well as give them more confidence! Whether you go for a walk, a jog, a bike ride, or take a lap around the pool, a little physical activity can go a long way in making you feel happier.
Sleep
A lack of sleep can leave you feeling drained and lead to moodiness. Be sure to get your 8 hours for some well-deserved rest and repair.
Make Time for Yourself
Remember that book you’ve been wanting to read? Read it. Or that DIY project you’ve been yearning to complete? There’s no better day than today! Doing the things we love and excel at are a perfect way to help us unwind and feel more accomplished. More accomplished = a happier you. Never get too busy taking care of your responsibilities that you forget to take care of yourself.
Sources
1. Borreli, Lizette. “5 Foods To Eat Away Depression And Anxiety.” Medical Daily. Medical Daily, 26 Aug. 2016. Web. 17 Mar. 2017. <http://www.medicaldaily.com/diet-depression-and-anxiety-5-natural-mood-enhancer-foods-lift-your-mind-395959>.
2. Vorbach, Vanessa. “Natural Mood Enhancers.” Tata Harper Skincare. N.p., 27 Aug. 2016. Web. 17 Mar. 2017. <http://blog.tataharperskincare.com/natural-mood-enhancers/>.
3. Axe, Josh. “St. John’s Wort Uses for Depression, PMS & Menopause.” Dr. Axe. N.p., 27 Feb. 2017. Web. 17 Mar. 2017. <https://draxe.com/st-johns-wort-uses/>.