Causes and Affects of Stress
We all experience stress at some point in our lives, and how you choose to handle it can make all the difference. Stress is the body’s normal response to an initial trigger that causes you to feel anxious or concerned, but this feeling tends to fade quickly. However, chronic stress can tell a much different story.
Stress elicits a chemical response within the brain, which in turn releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. According to Michael E. Platt, MD, “The number one cause of stress is excess adrenaline,” meaning that the key to reducing stress is likely linked to a decrease in this “emergency hormone”. It it can have many negative health effects related to heart disease, sleep problems, mental health issues, and more. The best way to prevent against this persistent strain on your mind and body is to find a natural way to de-stress, and make them a habit in your everyday lifestyle.
De-stressing Naturally
Exercise
An intense workout or yoga session may be the perfect way to distract yourself from any stressful situations that have you feeling on-edge. Exercise boosts endorphins, otherwise known as the “feel good” hormone, and helps uplift your mood and alleviate stress. Staying physically active also helps get your blood pumping and decreases your chances of high blood pressure or heart attacks, which are health problems commonly associated with chronic stress.
Eat well
Your diet can play a large roll in how your body functions, and how you manage stress. One of the most popular dietary recommendations for reducing stress include complex carbs like whole-grain breads, pastas, and oatmeal. Oranges and other citrus fruits are also a good place to start, since they are full of vitamin C that enhances the immune system and reduces stress hormone levels. Fish is another great option since it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that have many heart health benefits in addition to stress prevention advantages.
Reduce caffeine intake
In addition to maintaining a healthy diet, moderating the amount of coffee or other caffeinated beverages you drink can mitigate feelings of stress, especially if you usually have a high caffeine intake. We’re all familiar with the jitters that may come after drinking a cup of coffee, but what does this mean? Caffeine is a stimulant, and it sends signals to the brain that amp up the feelings of stress, which could make things worse if you’re already tense. You don’t have to quit cold turkey, but it is something to consider the next time you’re feeling stressed out.
Get proper sleep
Sleep plays a large role in the restoration and recovery of the body and mind. If you’re stressed, it’s even more important to give your body the proper rest that it needs to avoid feeling burnt out day after day. However, it’s inherently more difficult to get a good night’s sleep when you’re stressed out, but soaking in a warm bath, exercising regularly, or taking a melatonin supplement before bed can make it easier to drift off into a restful slumber.
Take wellness supplements
For many people, certain dietary supplements have helped them manage their stress in a more natural way. Magnesium or B12 vitamins are good options for promoting energy and concentration, which are traits you tend to lack when you’re under pressure. When it comes to reducing feelings of anxiety or tension, passionflower, valerian root, and CBD oil are popular choices that make it easier to relax after a stress-filled day.
These are my top picks on de-stressing. Do you have any other ways that you have found help you reduce stress in your life? If so, please share in the comments below!
