Valium is among the most popularly prescribed drugs in the nation, and modern life seems to grow more fraught with stress by the year. But if you are among the scores of Americans plagued by excessive anxiety, you don't have to resort to expensive and potentially dangerous prescription meds-even if that's what your physician is pushing. There are plenty of natural remedies for anxiety that many people have found effective, and it's worth exploring at least one of them.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on finding unhealthy thought and behavioral patterns and replacing them with more constructive methods of thinking and acting. In CBT, the psychologist or counselor guides the client or group of clients in learning to deal with stressful situations and to refrain from anxiety-triggering thoughts.

The Mind-Body Connection

The ancient practices of yoga and tai chi dominate today's fitness scene, but are sometimes overlooked as a remedy for anxiety and related conditions like depression. Yoga and tai chi emphasize a mind-body connection, soothing both the psychological and physical discomfort associated with anxiety. Meditation promotes relaxation and teaches to take control of your thoughts, allowing you to react with calm and clarity to situations that would have once provoked an anxiety attack.

You should also consider of the following natural alternatives that are gaining popularity in treating anxiety disorders:

- Biofeedback

-Hypnosis or self-hypnosis

-Massage therapy

- Shiatsu

- Tai chi

Your Exercise Rx

Reducing anxiety could be as simple as adding a morning jog to your routine or joining a strength-training class at your local gym. Exercise stimulates the release of chemicals in the brain called endorphins, which elevate mood, mental clarity and the sense of well-being. The rush of endorphins is instantaneous, and after just a few weeks of regular exercise feelings of tension and stress can be drastically reduced.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is becoming ever more widely used in treating a range of conditions of which anxiety is only one. The technique involves breathing in fragrant essential oils in the form of candles, scented baths, or massage oils. Many people have found it effective-at the very least it's a good deal more pleasant than swallowing pills.

Some of the most commonly used oils for treating anxiety include:

- Bergamot

- Cypress

- Geranium

- Jasmine

- Lavender

- Neroli

- Orange

- Patchouli

- Rose

- Sandalwood

- Ylang-ylang

Herbal Remedies

Chamomile, a flower reminiscent of the daisy, has been used medicinally since ancient times throughout Asia and Europe. Chamomile tea has been long been a trusted remedy for insomnia and anxiety. Some people do report adverse reactions to chamomile so people with allergies or women who are pregnant or nursing should avoid this plant.

Valerian Root, or valeriana officinalis as it is scientifically known, has calming properties helpful for milder forms of anxiety. It can be taken as a tea, capsule, or liquid and can be used safely for several continous months but it is not recommended for long-term use. Passionflower is another herb esteemed for its calming properties. It can react adversely with some prescription meds so doublecheck with your pharmacist before you try this remedy.

Whatever type of treatment for anxiety you feel would work best for you, make sure to first check with your doctor and discuss any special concerns you may have, and most importantly, remember to have patience and allow the treatment time to work properly. Too often, impatience prevents one from truly benefiting from any one method or technique, causing frustration, disappointment, and ultimately, more anxiety.