Stress-less

We all experience stress every day, whether it's related to work, health, family life, or an acute situation that arises. Stress is a natural reaction to a threat our bodies perceive that signals our bodies to fight or take flight. But drawn-out, recurring stress can have negative health impacts including increased blood pressure, tension that causes migraines, disrupted sleep, and memory issues. If you find yourself feeling stressed on a regular basis, consider the following coping mechanisms to help you feel better.

1. Exercise: Routine exercise helps move stress hormones such as cortisol through the body, and helps increase the production of mood-boosting endorphins. Try going for a brisk walk around your neighborhood and focusing on your surroundings to give yourself a break from whatever stressor has been bothering you.

2. Meditation: This doesn't necessarily mean sitting still for twenty minutes and clearing your brain of all thought. Meditation can simply be deep breathing in traffic, sitting quietly and listening to calming music, or closing your eyes for five minutes and using your other senses.

3. Eliminating the stressor: Certain things can't be avoided, but if it is a particular person or situation that is causing you to feel stressed, consider how you could change the situation or if the person necessarily needs to be in your life.

4. Eating patterns: Eating a diet high in processed foods has negative impacts on both physical health and mental. Try incorporating foods rich in B vitamins and magnesium such as eggs, grains, nuts, and seeds.

5. Calming Routines: Consider leaving a journal next to your bed to write down your thoughts, or try a coloring book. Avoiding screens before bed can also have a huge impact on stress!

If you think talking to someone would help alleviate your stress and help you come up with ways to manage it, consider giving the D'Adamo Institute a call and scheduling an appointment with their clinical mental health counselor.

603-430-7600