7 Ways to Stop Stressing!
September 12, 2022
Ask just about anyone if they’ve been feeling stressed out lately and they’ll probably say yes. In fact, stress and anxiety are among the most common health issues, affecting over 50% of Americans. But what is stress anyway?
In This Healthy Insight:
- What is Stress?
- What are the Effects of Stress?
- How to De-stress the Mess and Tips on How to Relax
- Best Supplements for Stress
- Ashwagandha
- Magnesium
- Vitamin D3
- Benefits of Relaxation
What is Stress?
Stress is your body’s physical, mental or emotional response to certain situations, events, demands, or even thoughts. Your pulse quickens, your muscles tense, you may feel frustrated, agitated or nervous. Short-term stress like meeting a deadline or going on a job interview can work in your favor, but ongoing stress can lead to chronic health issues.
What are the Effects of Stress?
Your body reacts to stress by releasing hormones that put your system on guard as it tries to protect itself from real (or imagined) danger, but when stress is long-term it negatively affects all these areas:
- Digestion
- Blood pressure
- Energy levels
- Weight
- Mood and outlook
- Cardiovascular health
- Skin
- Blood sugar levels
- Mental clarity
- Ability to concentrate
- Sleep
- Lifestyle choices
How to De-stress the Mess and Tips on How to Relax
Before reaching for that glass of wine, there are plenty of ways to de-stress the mess, starting with these 7 tips on how to relax.
- Exercise. Yeah. We’ve all heard it before and it never sounds fun, but it really doesn’t need to be super-taxing. All exercise counts, even if it’s something low key like a stroll in the park, taking the stairs or simply stretching. Physical exercise burns extra energy, releases feel-good endorphins, improves sleep and fights extra pounds.
- Journaling. Write down everything that’s stressing you out –the micromanaging boss, the know-it-all in-laws, the nosey neighbor. Putting it on paper helps you get it out of your system. But don’t stop there. Balance it out by keeping track of all the good things that are happening too.
- Connect with nature. Being outside, sitting in the park or taking a short stroll tremendously benefits your mood.
- Aromatherapy. Light a scented candle or diffuse essential oils into your space. Your olfactory receptors can lift your mood. Some of the most popular aromas include: lavender, frankincense, sandalwood, rose, bergamot, neroli, orange, cypress and rosemary. Scents are as individual as you are, so experiment to see which ones work best for you.
- Breathe. When you’re feeling anxious, take a 3-minute break and focus on your breathing. Sit or stand straight, eyes closed, shoulders back. Slowly inhale through your nose, count to ten and slowly exhale through your mouth. Deep breathing helps lower your heart rate and blood pressure.
- Biofeedback relaxation. This uses electronic technology to measure various bodily functions, giving you feedback so you can learn how to better control them.
- Progressive relaxation. This involved tightening and relaxing muscle groups as you work your way from your feet to your scalp. You can combine with deep breathing for even more impact.
Best Supplements for Stress
Ashwagandha
This herb root is considered an adaptogen, which is a substance that helps your body adapt to stress and balance your body’s processes. Traditionally, ashwagandha helps reduce feelings of anxiety, clears the mind and fosters concentration. Most importantly, it plays a key role in the body’s stress hormone, cortisol
Magnesium
There appears to be a connection between magnesium deficiency and anxiety. Magnesium is a mineral involved in stimulating the calming receptors in your brain and also helps to regulate and inhibit the release of cortisol.
Vitamin D3
While we mainly think of D3, the “sunshine vitamin,” for strong bones, studies indicate there’s a link between low levels of D and mood. D3 enhances overall brain function and eases feelings of sadness and stress.
Benefits of Relaxation
- Improves focus and concentration
- Reduces anger
- Improves digestion
- Slows heart rate
- Enhances libido
- Reduces fatigue
- Improves sleep
- Improves attitude
- Lowers blood pressure
- Reduces cortisol levels
- Boosts blood flow
- Reduces muscle tension
There are plenty of reasons to de-stress. Incorporating one or more of these tips into your daily routine will improve your enjoyment of life.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary.