When you’re stressed out, you seem to feel it everywhere. Stress may be an emotion, but it can take a very physical toll on our bodies. It can contribute to weight gain or loss and make it difficult to sleep.
Your body responds to stress with:
· Heavier breathing
· An increased heart rate
· Headaches
· Anxiety
· Increased perception of pain
· A weakened immune system
If we stay in ‘stress mode,’ the muscles begin to become knotted up with tight bands of muscle fibers and connective tissue. It’s important to, somehow, allow the mind and body to relax and switch off the stress to prevent ongoing physical problems.
Keep in mind that not all stress is bad—some stress is actually good for your health. It can be a great motivator and help you succeed at home, in relationships and at work.
But since chronic stress isn’t beneficial and should be controlled and managed. The secret is learning how to use small stresses to help you succeed and finding ways to manage bigger stresses to prevent them from harming your health.
Exercise can help you wind down, relax and de-stress. Exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals that improve mood. If you’re feeling stressed out and anxious, stop, take a deep breath and treat yourself to some exercise. A walk, a run, a yoga class— whatever you have time for and enjoy will help you manage your stress and better tackle whatever problem you face. Regular exercise helps you become more stress resilient.
Managing your stress should be a priority to protect your physical and emotional health. These suggestions may help keep stress in check:
· Eat clean. Stick to healthy, nutritious foods and skip the junk. If you want to feel productive and energetic you must eat to support that. Junk food does nothing but drag your body down physically and mentally.
· Go to bed. Sleep is so important but so hard for a lot of people to do. When you get sleep, your brain and body rejuvenates so that you can handle the stresses that are coming.
· Treat yourself to a massage. A massage can ease tense muscles, relax the body, improve sleep, boost your mood and more.
· Enjoy the little things. Don’t wait for a big vacation or special occasion to relax and enjoy yourself. Slow down, breathe, spend time in nature or laugh with a friend. Find lots of little ways to fight back against stress.
Remember: “Stress is like spice – in the right proportion it enhances the flavor of a dish. Too little produces a bland, dull meal; too much may choke you.”
~Donald Tubesing
Health and happiness,
Kriss
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