Stress can be unavoidable and is a normal part of life. However, chronic stressors in life that are experienced without periods of relief or relaxation, can be harmful. Stress can affect your physical, emotional and mental health. Physically, stress can be harmful to your health by leading to high blood pressure, headaches, muscle tension, difficulty sleeping, skin breakouts and stress can weaken your immune system. Cortisol, the stress hormone, has been linked to a weakened immune response, trouble with memory, and increased blood sugar. Stress can also cause moodiness or irritability, trouble concentrating, worry, feeling overwhelmed, and changes in appetite.
If you’re experiencing stress, we’ve found 6 ways to help handle and reduce stress.
1. Get a massage
Massage therapy has been proven effective in reducing stress and promoting relaxation. In addition to relieving muscle tension, massage therapy can reduce cortisol levels, improve mood and lower blood pressure almost immediately.
2. Take a walk
Like other forms of exercise, walking boosts endorphins that improve your mood. Walking can also quiet the mind, improve memory and decrease fatigue.
3. Take a time out and breathe
Deep breaths can help reduce stress in the moment the stressor is occurring. Deep breathing has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and anxiety, as well as oxygenating your blood. Take about 3 minutes and focus on slow deep breaths.
4. Listen to music
If you are feeling overwhelmed, try playing some soft, soothing and calming music. Playing soothing music can lower stress and promote relaxation.
5. Phone a friend
When feeling stressed, take a break and call a friend or family member. Talking with someone that you trust is a good way to express your feelings and gain some assurance. Good social support is important for a healthy and balanced life.
6. Eat healthy
Stress can be exacerbated by a poor diet. Make sure to eat a balanced diet with protein, grains, fruits and veggies. Vegetables and fruit provide antioxidants and vitamins that are essential for fighting stress and supporting your immune system.
Stress can wreak havoc in your life. Be sure to listen to mind and body, and take care of your stress levels before it becomes overwhelming. If you’re in the Jacksonville area, and would like to schedule a massage and tackle stress, call 904-874-8413 to schedule an appointment. Visit us online at HolisticBodyworksMassage.com
If you’re experiencing stress, we’ve found 6 ways to help handle and reduce stress.
1. Get a massage
Massage therapy has been proven effective in reducing stress and promoting relaxation. In addition to relieving muscle tension, massage therapy can reduce cortisol levels, improve mood and lower blood pressure almost immediately.
2. Take a walk
Like other forms of exercise, walking boosts endorphins that improve your mood. Walking can also quiet the mind, improve memory and decrease fatigue.
3. Take a time out and breathe
Deep breaths can help reduce stress in the moment the stressor is occurring. Deep breathing has been shown to reduce cortisol levels and anxiety, as well as oxygenating your blood. Take about 3 minutes and focus on slow deep breaths.
4. Listen to music
If you are feeling overwhelmed, try playing some soft, soothing and calming music. Playing soothing music can lower stress and promote relaxation.
5. Phone a friend
When feeling stressed, take a break and call a friend or family member. Talking with someone that you trust is a good way to express your feelings and gain some assurance. Good social support is important for a healthy and balanced life.
6. Eat healthy
Stress can be exacerbated by a poor diet. Make sure to eat a balanced diet with protein, grains, fruits and veggies. Vegetables and fruit provide antioxidants and vitamins that are essential for fighting stress and supporting your immune system.
Stress can wreak havoc in your life. Be sure to listen to mind and body, and take care of your stress levels before it becomes overwhelming. If you’re in the Jacksonville area, and would like to schedule a massage and tackle stress, call 904-874-8413 to schedule an appointment. Visit us online at HolisticBodyworksMassage.com
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