In modern society stress is widely accepted and for some it is part of their daily routine. Occasional stress can help to improve our focus and performance, however chronic stress can backfire and cause anxiety, depression and many other serious health problems. We can help to relieve our stress levels by putting our daily problems and worries into perspective. There are many techniques and strategies which help to relieve the effects of stress on our physical and mental health. Here are just a few techniques that can help alleviate your stress:
Positive Thinking
Keeping a positive mindset can help to reduce your stress levels significantly. Looking at situations and having a positive outlook on them will help you to tackle them with much less stress.
Enjoy the Outdoors
For many people connecting with nature may seem hard. In a modern society where life has been made more convenient, we have been deprived of an essential connection with nature. Recent studies have shown that more interaction with nature helps to lessen the effects of stress on the body.
Try Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy has been recognized around the world as a complementary therapy for dealing with chronic stress and pain. Smelling these essential plant oils can help you unwind and relax your body and mind. In particular, lavender and orange scents have been shown to enhance levels of relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Have a Cup of Tea to Help You Relax
We use coffee during stressful times to help keep us going. Why not give yourself a break and relax with a cup of tea. Studies have shown that drinking tea for 6 weeks helps to increase relaxation and lower stress levels. Drinking tea regularly can also reduce inflammation and potentially benefit the health of your heart.
Have a Laugh
Laughter has been proven to help boost the immune system, increase pain tolerance and enhance mood and creativity. It has also been said to prevent depression by putting our troubles into perspective. Humor has been related to happiness, which has been linked to high self-esteem and feeling in control.
Maintain a Strong Support System
Social support is a key factor in reducing stress levels. Women with low social support are more likely to experience an increase in blood pressure under stress. On the other hand, those who are active and socially involved are at lower risk of developing serious health problems, for example, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Maintaining strong, healthy relationships will help to reduce your stress levels.
Try Meditation
Meditation has gained popularity over the last few decades as a key relaxation and pain relief tool. By simply focusing on our breath or concentrating on a candle, can help to tune out our stresses and distractions in life. It has been proven to enhance quality of life and potentially benefit our immune system. Visualization and guided imagery have also shown promise in stress relief and pain reduction.
Exercise Regularly
In order to get the best out of your body and mind, try exercising regularly. Exercise helps to relax your mind whilst getting your body into good physical shape. Studies have shown that exercise will reduce depression and improve wound healing in the elderly. Some forms of exercise, such as Tai Chi, are suitable for all ages and can enhance heart and lung function and can also improve balance and posture.
Whichever stress-relief method you choose, make sure that it becomes a habit and use it! Ensure that there is always time in your day to relax and have time to yourself. Visit our team and see what we can do to alleviate your stress.
For Your Health,
Dr. Patrick Chenoweth