Feelings of stress and anxiety can feel overwhelming. It’s something we’ve all experienced; whether it’s a result of work pressures or social burdens. Chronic stress can lead to more serious health conditions; therefore tackling everyday occurrences is crucial.
Identify your triggers
Identifying and acknowledging the triggers for your stress is the first step in improving your health. Once you have recognised when and why these feelings arise, then you can take preventative action.
Try yoga
There seems to be a lot of skepticism surrounding the practice of yoga, however studies have shown that it is an effective coping method for stress. Yoga focuses on meditation, deep breathing, understanding your body and regulating it. It also increases strength, balance and flexibility, making it beneficial for mind and body.
Jump around
Exercise is a recommended coping mechanism by healthcare professionals. Whether you enjoy playing sports, lifting weights or simply walking, staying active can help you work out any frustration you are experiencing. Additionally exercise promotes the nervous system to release endorphins, which naturally fight pain and stress.
Plant power
Ancient civilisations believed in the power of plants; they were utilised for their spiritual healing, hygienic nature and ritualistic properties. Plants are known to purify the air you breath, making them a great addition to your interior scheme. The extra foliage will also bring the feel of nature indoors, for a soothing effect. Choose aloe plants, peace lilies or bamboo palms, which are all famed for their pacifying countenance.
Positive foods
Diet is a huge factor in how our bodies react to certain environments; choose carefully which vitamins and minerals you consume. Potassium can help with high blood pressure levels—half an avocado has more potassium than a whole banana making it a great snack. Warm oatmeal is another good option; it boosts levels of serotonin, a calming brain chemical. Likewise keeping your levels of magnesium topped up can reduce headaches and fatigue, a side effect of anxiety. Spinach and other leafy vegetables are packed with magnesium and are very versatile to cook with.
Create an escape
Sometimes all we need is a brief escape. Unfortunately not everybody can jet off to the Bahamas at a moments notice, so finding escapism a little closer to home is more realistic. It may be within a gripping book or listening to your favourite music album, do whatever it takes to help you switch off and let your troubles disappear.
Get crafty
Starting a new craft or hobby can help to alleviate stress—it keeps your hands busy and focuses your mind on learning a new skill. A new craft may not resolve the seed of the problem, but it will certainly take your mind off it during your free time. You should make a point of allowing yourself to enjoy fresh experiences without background anxieties getting in the way.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is believed to stimulate the nervous system and trigger the release of neurochemical messenger molecules. The resulting biochemical changes improve the balance of the body’s homeostatic functions, thereby improving emotional and physical wellbeing. This therapy is famed for aiding with post-traumatic stress disorder and varying degrees of anxiety.
Laugh out loud
Whether it’s a comical T.V. show or an evening with your friends, allowing yourself time to unwind and laugh will make a world of difference. Laughter leads to the release of a cocktail of ‘happy chemicals’ such as endorphins and serotonin. Also, laughing for extended periods lowers cortisol the body’s stress hormone—even more of a reason to have a good chuckle with your best pals.
Write it down
Write a structured letter or list of what is bothering you, it will allow you to get some clarity and confront the problem head on. Seeing it on paper can help you organise a workable solution or even put some perspective onto the situation.
Need more advice? Take a look at Celebrity Angel’s Stress Busters