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Natural therapies for social anxiety
ShareBut if you don’t want to go the conventional route of medication, namely antidepressants, there are some successful natural therapies that you could try under supervision of a health professional.
Let’s look at a few in turn:
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for social anxiety
According to the Social Anxiety Institute, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been very successful in treating social anxiety in a range of people.A popular counselling technique, CBT delves deep into the patient’s thoughts and behaviours to understand those patterns. The therapist will then help their patient replace their old thought patterns and behaviours with new ones. Think of CBT as a way to find a fresh perspective so you can thrive in life.
It’s a complex therapy, but with commitment and a qualified therapist, CBT may be one of the best ways to understand and treat your social anxiety.
Meditation for social anxiety
Many people have also found meditation helps alleviate their social anxiety. Science has proven that meditation changes brain waves, allowing those with social phobia to calm their beta brain waves and boost their alpha brain waves.There are many quick meditation techniques you can also apply in situations that bring on your anxiety. The key is to meditate daily, so that long term cognitive change can take place. Try a meditation class to learn the proper meditation technique.
Mindfulness falls under the meditation umbrella. By being mindful, you become more aware of your anxiety and how you respond to it. Soon you’ll be able to separate the symptoms from your self, so you are better able to understand and manage your anxiety.
Exercise for social anxiety
Something as simple as a walk outdoors can alleviate anxiety symptoms. When you’re caught in your mindset, taking a break from all that mental chatter and being out in the world, in nature, can be relieving. If you don’t want to talk to anyone, that’s ok; just plug in some music, don some sunnies, and do your own thing. All that fresh air, endorphins, and seeing that the world continues despite your inner fears, can all provide perspective.If you can, build up to a regular strength training program as well. Strength training – building your muscles – not only gives you physical strength to bolster mental strength, but it also tires you out so you fall asleep easier and are less wound up.
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
