Occasional stress happens, sometimes more frequently than others.
It’s your body’s natural response to the whirlwind of life events that we all experience. Money is tight, parenting is hard, work is demanding, family members need care – it all adds up to some pretty stressful situations.
We’ve got some tips to help rewire your brain to take charge, combat that occasional stress and bring your body, mind and mood back into balance. Let’s get started!
1. Eat in color – lots of it
Occasional stress can impact your overall health and wellness. The best defense is a good offense, so fuel your body with well-balanced meals that include fresh, colorful fruits and veggies.
Want some extra support to fill any nutritional gaps? Contact me.
2. Fit in fitness
Exercise is a natural stress reliever, even in short spurts. More than benefitting your physical fitness, working out is key to mental fitness, too, because it jumpstarts endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers.
In just 20 minutes of cardio, you’ll feel your stress start to melt away and experience a burst of energy and well-being that can last up to three hours. So, get your heart pumping and get happy.
3. Get plenty of sleep
Sleep is vital to your overall health and wellness. Stress takes its toll on your ability to fall asleep and get a good night’s rest, which ultimately leads to more stress and less Zzzzs.
Break this vicious cycle with a healthy nighttime routine. We are creatures of habit, so create a bedtime ritual centered on relaxation and stress relief, such as a warm bath followed by a little pampering. Still struggling? We can help you to improve your quality of sleep.
4. Soothe with self-care
Stress thrives in chaos—and ages your skin something fierce. Ugh! Bring back the calm with a daily self-care regimen that renews your skin from the outside in.
When you take care of yourself, you’re better able to take care of everything else.
5. Try a relaxation supplement
There are various kinds of supplements or teas that are formulated to help you relax, too. Choose your favorite herbal blend and make a ritual out of enjoying a cup when you need a break.
6. Track your triggers
Stress is rooted in emotions. Keep a journal to note which behaviors and situations spark anxiety and tension for you. Then, turn your attention to coping strategies that use your mind to relax your body.
Start with your breath. When it becomes erratic, rapid or shallow, change the pace with intentionally slow, deep inhales and exhales. Or try repeating a mantra like the word “one” to center yourself, clear your mind and enhance relaxation.
If you feel your heart or mind start to race, stop what you’re doing and pause, close your eyes and put the power of visualization to work. If the day ahead looks stressful, set your alarm for 20 minutes earlier and practice yoga or a walking meditation.
If you need any help in stress relief, you can reach out to us through our contact forms. We are always there for you.