What is stressful for one person may simply be an incentive to make decisions, take action, or embrace a whole new way of thinking for someone else. People who embrace change in their lives and are happy when busy and faced with tight deadlines may find stressful situations are easy to manage and will be able to relax afterwards. Alternatively, overwhelmingly stressful situations may literally be a way of life for some people, and this may lead to perpetual feelings of anxiety, depression and a lack of fulfilment. Luckily, there are several simple yet effective relaxation techniques which you can learn to control stress; such as meditation, deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation.

Your perception of yourself and other people influences your reactions to stress, and there have been many scientific studies documenting the effects stress has on your body. These physical effects can include high blood pressure, respiratory difficulties and problems with digestion. Dietary changes such as substituting sugary, salty, or fatty foods for healthier alternatives and adding herbal teas to your diet may be extremely beneficial. While turning to indulgent treats such as cookies, cake, or extra cups of coffee may seem to relieve anxious feelings, the sugar and caffeine in these sorts of foods and beverages may actually produce the opposite effect.

Drinking energy drinks, cola, etc. Can help increase your short-term concentration, but they certainly won't make you feel more relaxed. A better choice is to try one of the many natural herbal teas on the market, some of which have beneficial calming and anxiety-reducing effects. The combination of the chemical reaction in your brain and the healthful antioxidants found in these teas often lead to improved health and fortitude, giving you a stronger foundation from which to deal with daily stress.

Just a few cups of tea, such as Chamomile, Rooibos, Honeybush or Peppermint, can make a difference to your state of mind and be part of a healthy diet plan. Kava kava, St. John's Wort, and Spearmint are other herbal choices that have also been used for relaxation purposes. Although some of these anxiety-relieving herbs are often supplied in capsule form, many people opt for herbal teas because the act of imbibing a healthy and tasty drink is relaxing in itself, as well as often being a social event.

People have been drinking tea in one form or another for thousands of years, and numerous medical studies have confirmed the beneficial properties of some types of tea. In many countries tea is regarded as a national drink, and is thought to create a special energy that makes the body relax. Some studies have shown an increased life expectancy in those who regularly drink some types of tea (especially green and white teas which retain more antioxidants and phytonutrients than black tea). Of course, drinking a few cups of tea will not make your stress disappear overnight, but as part of a regular routine it's a simple way centering yourself and improving your overall well-being.