Stress can come from any source, and have a range of effects on our physical and mental health.
Over time this load gets heavier, and the effects can become harder to cope with.
Stress can affect you physically in the form of headaches, high blood pressure, muscle tightness, heart problems, stomach problems and skin conditions. It can cause mental issues such as depression and anxiety.
Therefore, checking in with yourself and tending to stress levels is an important aspect of your wellbeing.
Having said that, stress is a part of everyday life. So rather than putting an emphasis on removing stress entirely, it could be more constructive to find ways to relieve and process stress.
There are several ways to cope with stress, and hopefully reduce its effects:
Switch off social media and the TV
Over-stimulation means you don’t have a moment to have a quiet mind. Not only is the blue light emitted from screens affecting you, but the content you're consuming could be too - likely consisting of clickbait and advertising.
Instead of watching TV before you go to sleep, read a book instead. It’ll allow you a chance to wind down and reduce your screen time.
Take time to relax regularly
Knowing what helps you to unwind is important because while yoga works for some, it may not work for others. Some people are active relaxers where they find walking or swimming relaxing, whereas others may need twenty minutes to themselves to write, read or simply be alone without distraction. Find what works for you.
Take care of yourself (diet and exercise)
I know you’ve heard this like a broken record, but a balanced diet and plenty of exercise is the foundation to your body’s health. (As inconvenient as that can be sometimes!) While eating a variety of nutrient-dense food everyday is important, knowing what ingredients do and don’t agree with your body is an essential consideration too.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep - but not too much sleep - is important to managing stress. A comfy bed and a sleep-inducing environment are just as important to staying healthy as eating well.
Avoid alcohol
Leading on from the previous point, drinking can affect your quality of sleep, emotional state and physical wellbeing. Cutting down or removing it from your diet completely could be the missing piece to getting on top of your stress.
Socialise with people you love
Loneliness increases the risk of premature death. Socialising with friends boosts mood, health and lowers stress levels. Even if you don’t fancy leaving the house, making it your objective to mingle with people you love will be well worthwhile.
If you’re needing a break to get on top of your stress levels, book in a session in our relaxation pods. They give you the opportunity to take a breath and enjoy silence away from our loud and busy lives.
