Our fast-paced modern life almost assures that most of us get stressed out fairly frequently. Stress isn't all bad - it keeps us on our toes and keeps us from getting bored. Some people are naturally good at handling stress. And some people don't handle it well at all. For these unfortunate people, too much stress too often can lead to chemical imbalances in the brain and cause anxiety. Severe anxiety can even lead to full blown panic attacks.

If that sounds like you, understand that handling stress better is something you can learn to do.

Unfortunately, if you go to a doctor with your anxiety symptoms, most likely he will suggest anti anxiety medication instead of teaching you these skills. There are also many natural panic attack treatments that you can try. These natural remedies for anxiety don't have the bad side effects that drugs have and they are not addictive. Prescribed drugs for anxiety are tough to go off of.

When you start feeling that you are getting too stressed and are starting to get anxious, here are some simple lifestyle change tips you can use for natural anxiety relief.

When working or seated for other reasons, take a five-minute break every hour. Get up and walk around or do some stretching and deep breathing exercises.
Reduce or even eliminate your caffeine intake. If you must have caffeine in the morning, have it with a hearty breakfast. Coffee on an empty stomach can give you an adrenaline rush and you're your blood plummet, which feels pretty much like anxiety.

You simply must take the time to exercise. Aim for 30-40 minutes 4 times a week. This will relax you and help you sleep well. But don't exercise too close to bedtime as this can keep you awake.

Still having trouble falling asleep? Kava kava, valerian, melatonin and 5HTP are natural relaxants that can help you sleep without making you drowsy in the morning. 5HTP also helps reduce your appetite, if you are looking to lose weight.

Meditation has been used for thousands of years and has been shown to increase emotional stability. I even can improve your immune system, too.

Massage therapy can also provide anxiety relief. It improves circulation, relieves aching muscles, helps you sleep better, and just feels good.

And I think one of the most important anxiety attack treatments is getting outside of yourself. Play with your kids and give them your undivided attention. Roll on the floor with a puppy. Plant a vegetable garden. Volunteer to help people less fortunate than you. You might find during these activities you forgot forget to feel anxious! Deane Alban