Do you feel as though you are more stressed than you should be and searching for ways to relieve stress? Stress has a way of creeping up on us. Perhaps you feel like you just can’t get on top of things or you’re struggling to get the rest your body requires. However you’re experiencing stress, the fact that you’re here reading this is an indication you’re ready to make some changes. Try these few steps and see if they do a little bit to relieve stress in your life.
Be More Active
You may be thinking, how is doing more going to relieve stress? But, we’re not talking about doing more of what you’re already doing. The kind of activity that is beneficial for relieving stress is physical activity. Studies have found that those who participate in aerobic exercise a couple of days a week have much lower stress levels. Blood pressure and heart rate drop, sleep improves and participants experience less anxiety. A regular exercise routine also improves depression.
If you have been inactive, it is wise to begin with gentle activities, such as biking or walking. Choose an activity that you enjoy doing and it will increase the odds that you will stick with the routine. Some find enlisting exercising with a friend or family member helps them stay on track.
If you struggle to get out of the house because you are caring for a loved one then now might be the time for you to hire the help of a dementia care provider. Caregiving is stressful and maintaining your health vitally important.
Follow a Great Diet
Your diet will greatly affect nearly every aspect of your health. Studies have found that those who eat a lot of processed foods or added sugar, experience more stress. If you are chronically stressed it can cause you to overeat. Not eating nutrient-dense foods also increases your chance of developing a vitamin deficiency. Our mood can be impacted by vitamin deficiencies and hormone imbalances. One way for you to make a change in your diet is to decide to to cook a healthy meal, once per week. Search for a new healthy recipe and learn how to make it. Making changes in small, manageable steps has been shown to be the most effective way to create new habits.
Limit Screen Time
Smartphones, computers and even tablets are unavoidable in daily life. That said, it’s possible to limit the amount of time you are using them. If your phone is constantly sending you notifications, it is difficult to unwind. When possible, switch your phone to silent mode. Or, lower the volume so the notifications are less jarring. You might also consider adjusting your settings so that you only receive the most important notifications. Another step to try is to eliminate screen time for a period of time each day. Again, start a small doable step and increase over time.
Pay attention to how much time you spend watching TV. To relieve stress, turn off the TV and do something different. Pick up a new book by your favorite author and read. Or, spend some time on your favorite hobby or take up a new one. Little changes can have a big impact on your mental health.
Supplements
Several minerals and vitamins play a major role in your body. A deficiency in one or more nutrients can affect your ability to cope with stress. Studies have shown that taking a dietary supplement can help reduce stress. A healthy body is a more relaxed one, and vice versa! A good place to begin is with a visit to your primary care physician. Ask your doctor to run a blood panel to check for any obvious deficiencies. If you have had a blood test recently, check in with your doctor and ask specifically if they think you would benefit from a vitamin and/or mineral supplement.
Just a few small changes in one’s lifestyle can begin to relieve stress and make a big difference in our health and overall quality of life.
