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Living with PTSD is not easy. At times, it can be overwhelming when flashbacks, anxiety, and sleepless nights beset life. If you seek natural ways to manage your symptoms, know you are not alone. Many people are looking for alternatives to traditional treatments, and guess what? There are plenty of options out there! Let’s take a closer look at some of the most promising natural remedies for PTSD and see what works best for you, as that right balance just might change everything. It’s about finding what feels right in your body and mind.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Small Changes, Big Results
You’ve probably heard the expression, “Be in the moment.” That’s exactly what mindfulness is all about. But PTSD puts your mind on overdrive, replaying the traumas. In contrast, mindfulness techniques—meditation and deep breathing—will ground you in the present. Further, studies suggest that consistent mindfulness practice over time reduces the frequency and intensity of PTSD episodes, bringing a notable improvement in emotional regulation and mental clarity. Plus, it’s something you can start doing today, even for just five minutes. Happily, you can fit mindfulness into your routine no matter how busy you are.
Exercise: Movement as Medicine
When you think about treating PTSD, does hitting the gym come to mind? Maybe not, but it should! Physical activity is one of the best natural remedies for PTSD, and the science backs it up. Whether it’s yoga, walking, or dancing around your living room, movement helps your brain release feel-good chemicals called endorphins. Not only does regular exercise improve your mood, but it can also raise your overall energy levels and make you feel more resilient throughout the day. The best part is that you don’t need to do an intense workout to reap the benefits—even a gentle 20-minute stroll can make a huge difference. Moving your body does another amazing thing, too: it gives you a sense of control, which can be unbelievably empowering when dealing with PTSD.
Herbal Supplements and Diet Tweaks: Nature’s Own Remedies
We have all heard the phrase: we are what we eat. However, few of us realize that what we put into our bodies plays a huge part in how we feel mentally. The most well-known herbs for their calming properties include ashwagandha, valerian root, and chamomile. You might find them helpful in order to unwind after a very long, stressful day. Even the tiniest addition, like drinking chamomile tea before bed, can create a soothing routine to help improve your sleep. Adding foods rich in vitamins, such as dark leafy greens and nuts, will further support brain functioning so you feel more stable and balanced. Sometimes, the tiniest changes in your diet make all the difference in how you feel on an emotional level.
Medical Marijuana: New Avenue for PTSD Relief?
Here’s something you may or may not know: medical marijuana has emerged as a possible treatment plan for PTSD. It’s not some trend—there is increasing documentation that cannabis can be effective in relieving symptoms such as anxiety and sleep disturbances. If you happen to live in West Virginia, you may even qualify for a WV medical marijuana card. This allows individuals with PTSD, among other conditions, to legally access medical marijuana. Many people who use it report improved sleep and reduced nightmares, which are very common in those with PTSD. Of course, it is always prudent to consult a healthcare professional beforehand, but for many, this is a natural method of regaining some lost peace of mind. With professional guidance, you can research and determine whether this may be the right fit for your treatment plan.