5 Herbal Teas to Calm Your Mind and Relieve Stress

We can already feel a slight nip in the air and when the breeze becomes chilly – all we can think of is to curl up with a hot cup of tea. A perfect cup of tea can stimulate your senses and energize you from within. While yoga and meditation are known as effective ways to calm you mind and relive stress, some of the simplest pleasures in life may also have the same positive impact such as listening to music or sipping some soothing tea. Herbal teas not only relax your mind but also help you sleep peacefully.According to Dr. Anju Sood, a Bangalore-based Nutritionist, “Herbal teas are very relaxing for mind as they contain essential oils that are known to cool down the nerve. Conventionally, 3 tablespoon of the fresh herbs or 1 tablespoon of dried herbs steeped in a cup of water for about 5 to 10 minutes should be enough.”
 _{Herbal teas not only relax your mind but also help you sleep peacefully.}What makes herbal teas so relaxing?Certain herbal teas may have an immediate effect in reducing anxiety. They are exposed to minimum oxidation during the processing of freshly plucked leaves of the tea plant, and they are known to have some magical properties that help in relaxing your body and mind. The key ingredient in herbal tea that leads to a state of physical and mental relaxation is a chemical known as L-theanine which helps in reducing stress, improves the quality the sleep, diminishes the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, heightens mental activity and reduces the negative side-effects of caffeine. Here are five herbal teas that will be your best companions during gloomy winter days.1. Chamomile Tea
Delicate chamomile flowers are infused in hot water to make this tea that is known to help with stress relief and provides a good night’s sleep. You may use fresh or dried chamomile flowers to make this tea. Chamomile has a very soothing effect with mildly sedative properties that help you switch off on a hectic day.
 _{Chamomile has a very soothing effect with mildly sedative properties.}2. Peppermint Tea
Aromatic peppermint tea is known to be a great remedy for stomach problems like indigestion and even cold and flu. People often sip on peppermint tea after dinner to calm down the digestive system which helps you sleep better.
 _{Aromatic peppermint tea is known to be a great remedy for stomach problems}3. Kahwa
Kahwa is a traditional beverage which is made with a mix of Kashmiri green tea leaves, whole spices, nuts and saffron. It is rich in antioxidants, helps you feel relaxed and reduces anxiety levels. It also helps to fight the negative effects of stress induced toxins in the body. It has a rich flavour and aroma.
 _{Kahwa helps you feel relaxed and reduces anxiety levels}4. Sage Tea
Sage herb is known to be an excellent muscle relaxer. Sage is a wonderful remedy to rely on when you’re suffering from mental exhaustion and body ache. It makes for an enjoyable drink.
 _{Sage relaxes you mentally and relieves your body ache}5. Rose Tea
The sweet smell of roses is enough to beat stress and relax your mind. You can use fresh or dried rose petals and let them steep in water till they turn dark. Sip on it before going to bed. It has a calming effect on your mind which will help you sleep better.
 _{Rose Tea helps you sleep better}Beat the winter blues by brewing a hot cup of tea which will calm your mind, warm your soul and relax your body in many ways you never knew.