Are you feeling a little more stressed lately? You're not alone.
/How are you feeling? More stressed than usual? If so, you're not alone. I've been hearing this a lot from people lately! With spring around the corner, this is a great time to start or renew our healthy habits.
Stress is a funny thing. We wouldn't want it to go away all together. After all, our fight or flight stress response is what keeps us safe when we sense danger. And, our stress response propel us to meet a deadline or crush a speech or a performance.
Of course, the problems occur when we remain at a heightened level of stress for an extended period of time. We can feel distracted, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, agitated, angry and unfocused to the point where we can't even complete that looming project. We may find ourselves getting sick more often or having more physical symptoms like back pain and headaches. We may also find ourselves having trouble sleeping, sleeping too much, or gaining weight.
So how can we make friends with stress even when we're in the midst of what may feel like a storm?
Here are 5 tips to help manage your stress:
Do not skip your workout. Your body needs exercise to feel good, to boost your feel good hormones and to help clear stress hormones like cortisol from your body.
Eat well. Food can be as powerful as medicine. And, if you feed your body right, you may just be able to avoid medicine in the future.
Get the headlines and turn off the news. Any of my clients will tell you that I recommend getting the headlines and then shutting down the news, especially if it's close to bedtime. Constant news, headlines and programs with people shouting will raise your stress hormones. Simply shut if off and enjoy the peace and quiet.
Get outside! Nature is incredibly soothing and a good reminder of how big a world it is.
Limit social media. Facebook feeds aren't necessarily relaxing. Research has shown social media can intensify feelings of anxiety and depression. Try to limit the amount of time you spend scrolling. Instead, talk and laugh live with friends and family.
Of course, this is just a start of how to take care of yourself! What 5 things will you put on your list?
If you want even more tips, check out our stress reducing virtual programs. Or, drop a line to find out about getting your own health and wellness coach!