April is Stress Awareness Month!
Yes the seasons are changing, the sun is shining but it’s important to recognize the biggest stressors in our lives and take action to control them! The purpose of this post is to help inform people about the dangers of stress, while sharing successful ways to cope and help to clarify misconceptions about stress.
Stress can lead to headaches, stomach pain, depression and even a broken ❤️ heart attack. When a person feels a threat coming towards them, hormones rush into the blood, causing an increased heart rate, blood pressure and glucose levels. This is why feeling stressed can often lead to feeling sick.
In order to recognize stressors, take time to think about what makes you feel worked up and threatened
Some of the best responses are:
• Recognizing lack of control, and letting go
• Set a goal for yourself that includes healthy and happy living
• Remember that you cannot change every situation, and be ok with that
One of the easiest ways to let go, and move on, is by taking 15-20 minutes a day to take a walk, mediate, or take time doing something relaxing that you enjoy. By allowing your brain to focus on #METime for a few minutes per day, you will be able to improve your ability to handle stress moving forward. Remember to create some space for yourself. Take a deep breath, smile and don’t be afraid to ever ask for a hug!
Stands To Reason
If your body feels better, so does your mind. Exercises such as, swimming, and yoga are just a few ways to reduce the stress. Sports that are solely one on one give you the opportunity to do your personal best without feeling like you need to compete.
Here are a few to get you started:
- Swimming- is great for the heart and for your body’s muscle strength, focusing on something other than our minds we allow clear thinking to arrive.
- Yoga- focuses on Mind & Body, may help reduce stress, lower blood pressure and lower your heart rate.
- Running- Gives you a set amount of time to be alone with your thoughts. When you run your body releases endorphins known as the “feel-good” hormones It’s an opioid chemical that the body uses to help quell pain and create a natural pain killer.
No wonder why people are so addicted to running 🙂
