Five anti-stress therapies recommended by our experts
Overflowing inboxes, imminent deadlines, crowded diaries… by now, none of us will be strangers to stress – or the effects it can have our body, mind and skin. When insomnia, headaches, depression, anxiety, increased blood pressure and skin complaints all have proven links to stress, it’s safe to say that reducing stress levels is one of the most important things we can do for our overall wellbeing. And while spending time in nature, exercising and avoiding unhealthy habits are all intrinsic to relieving stress, many of us are also turning ourselves over to the hands of experts, who work holistically to restore tranquillity to both mind and body.
In recognition of Stress Awareness Month, a global campaign launched in 1992 to help increase awareness around the causes of stress this April we sat down with five Neal’s Yard Remedies experts to find out what anti-stress services they recommend.
AROMATHERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
“In the midst of life’s chaos, I’d recommend an aromatherapeutic massage as a stress-buster. Aromatherapy involves using essential oils which are chosen for their soothing properties. The massage helps us to physically unwind, while the essential oils work with the body’s natural relaxation cues. As these aromatic essences are inhaled and absorbed during the massage they interact with the limbic system, the brain’s emotional centre, triggering the body’s natural ‘calm-down’ response. This creates a uniquely holistic approach to easing stress and anxiety.” - Julianna, Aromatherapist
Contact our Sevenoaks branch to book an aromatherapeutic massage with Julianna, or book here.
FLOWER ESSENCE THERAPY
“If you want to flourish in your life, it’s good to learn from the best – the plant kingdom. Flower essences therapy is a wellbeing practice discovered by Dr Bach, who saw early on how the connection between mind and body plays a huge part in overall health. He believed that the essence captures the healing energy of plants and flowers. There are flower essences for various psychological and emotional needs, for example, White Chestnut essence can put an end to repetitive thoughts and Larch essence can help us to feel more confident. Whatever’s happening on the outside, flower essences support you from the inside.” - Ellie-Rose, Holistic Therapist
Contact our Islington branch to book a bespoke flower essence session with Ellie-Rose, or book here.
ACUPUNTURE
“Acupuncture is an ancient practice in traditional Chinese medicine. It’s a means of managing pain, stress and restoring equilibrium to the flow of ‘life force’, referred to as chi, that moves through your body along paths called meridians. An acupuncture practitioner will place needles at certain spots along these meridians, so your energy flow will rebalance. Acupuncture needles also stimulate the body's natural feel-good hormones, reducing levels of hormones like cortisol and helping to alleviate stress.” - Delphine, Acupuncturist
Contact our Glasgow branch to book an acupuncture session with Delphine, or book here.
REFEXOLOGY
“Reflexology is a nurturing touch therapy that harmonises mind, body and spirt by skilfully applying pressure to precise points on the feet, hands or ears. Through skilful manipulation of these reflex points, practitioners foster relaxation, melting away tension and stimulating the release of endorphins. This practice honours ancient wisdom from Egypt, India and China, where holistic healing therapies are revered. Its gentle, non-invasive nature continues to be embraced for its potential to support overall wellbeing. Emerging studies suggest that engaging in regular reflexology sessions holds promise in aiding the management of stress and anxiety and even improving sleep quality.” - Aidilla, Complementary Health & Wellbeing Educator and Practitioner
Contact our Manchester branch to book a reflexology session with Aidilla, or book here.
HERBAL MEDICINE & AYURVEDA
“Ayurveda is a system of traditional medicine native to India, spanning various treatments including yoga, acupuncture, herbal medicine and massage therapy. In Ayurveda, stress-related problems are known as ‘Vata’ aggravation, and can be managed holistically through a combination of self-massage, meditation, breathing techniques, diet and herbal remedies. Herbal remedies offer a variety of benefits: herbal adaptogens can help balance the body, and nervine tonics can calm the nervous system, allowing us to manage stress and anxiety more effectively. Appropriate herbs can be chosen according to each individual’s doshic type – which, in Ayurvedic medicine, describes how bad habits, poor diet, working habits etc. may contribute to relative deficiencies in the body. Living as we do in the 21st century, practicing Ayurveda can help us to find balance.” - Sarah, Medical Herbalist & Ayurvedic Practitioner
Contact our Salisbury branch to book an Ayurveda session with Sarah, or book here.
From aromatherapy to therapeutic massages, we offer a range of soothing therapies and treatments all over the country. To book via therapy, therapist or location, consult our Therapy Finder here.
