THE STRESS FACTOR - Ways to reduce stress

Feeling stressed over weeks or months can weaken the immune system and cause high blood pressure, fatigue, depression, anxiety and have other harmful effects on the body.

 

If you have been feeling stressed there are several things that you can do to help to lower cortisol, which is our main stress hormone.

 

 

GUIDED VISUALISATIONS & MEDITATION

 

Take a moment to pause and feel inspired with a guided meditation or visualisation to enhance self awareness, control anxiety, promote emotional health and to remind you to be in the present moment, without worrying about the past or future. Meditation and mindfulness are powerful tools to combat stress and anxiety. 

 

 EATING WELL 

 

 A diet that is high in caffeine and sugar will affect your adrenal system, which can spike stress levels and lead to fatigue. Managing stress means having a balanced, wholefood diet with lots of vegetables and fruit. Other foods that help to reduce stress include dark chocolate (high in magnesium), herbal teas (antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress), and nuts such as almonds, pistachios and walnuts are high in the antioxidant vitamin E and zinc as well as B-vitamins, which help the body manage stress.

 

KEEP ACTIVE 

 

Research shows that regular exercise decreases overall levels of tension and helps to elevate and stabilise mood, improve sleep, and self-esteem. Even five minutes of exercise can stimulate anti-anxiety effects. Activities such as Yoga can help keep the body moving and cultivate a steady breath and mindfulness to reduce stress. 

 

 

GOOD QUALITY SLEEP 

 

Stress and sleep are closely linked. Not getting enough sleep can cause higher cortisol levels and general fatigue for the body and mind. Our body heals and restores during deep sleep, so it's important to get at least 7-8 hours of shut-eye per night.

 

HAPPINESS 

 

Doing something that makes you smile each day (even if you don't feel like it) will help to boost your happiness hormones and rebalance your body. Getting out in fresh air, reading a book, catching up with friends or anything else that makes you happy (even if it's just 5 minutes) will help you feel less stressed.

 

 

HYDRATION 

 

Studies have shown that dehydration leads to higher cortisol levels, making it harder to deal with everyday issues. By staying hydrated you will be better equipped to deal with everyday problems.

Try our guided visualisations and other wellness products to help you manage stress

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