Stress is a natural part of life. Stress can occur at home, at work, with family, friends or when facing certain situations. Whatever the cause, all of us will be faced with stressful moments in our lives. More recently, many have been dealing with stress around COVID-19 and the challenges that it has presented.
Managing stress and staying healthy
Managing stress and staying healthy are skills that are useful to have, now and always. High levels of stress can lead to anxiety, fatigue, difficulty sleeping and mood swings amongst other symptoms.
Because stress is primarily caused by our emotional and mental state of mind, the tips to reduce stress are centered around doing things to make you ‘feel’ less stressed out and help your body relax. Here are tips on managing stress in your life
Get regular exercise
It sounds simple but studies show that exercise reduces levels of the body’s stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. It also stimulates the production of endorphins -chemicals in the brain that make us feel good.
Practice relaxation techniques
Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga or tai chi are centered around relaxing the body. These techniques are designed to help slow the breathing, bring down the heart rate and make us aware of our body and surroundings.
Spend more time with family and friends
This might be a little harder to do right now but once things start to open up, spend more time with those whose company you genuinely enjoy. Go for a walk or grab a coffee with a close friend. Sometimes talking to someone you trust can be very therapeutic.
Set time aside to do things you enjoy
Set up some ‘Me-time’. Schedule some time (ie. 30 minutes to an hour) to do something that you enjoy. Something that’s just for you. Whether it’s reading a book, pottery, gardening, catching up on your favourite TV show or knitting, do something that brings you happiness.
Keep a positive attitude and accept that there are events that you cannot control.
Many stressors are the product of issues or problems that we have very little control over. While difficult initially, remind yourself that you can only be responsible for things you can control. Focus on the matters that you have control over and let go of the ones you can’t.
Lastly, if you think your health is being compromised by stress then make an appointment to see a doctor
References
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-symptoms/art-20050987
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax
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