We all have varying degrees of stress to work through. Fortunately, normal doses of life challenges are manageable with few complications. That said, there are times when stress gets out of control and we suffer in our bodies, minds, and spirits. I ask myself frequently how I feel, and whether stress is passing through efficiently or weighing me down. If you find that it has thrown you under the bus as of late, know that there are things you can do to feel better. There are some simple and natural ways to do it. Let’s take a look at just a few. Before we move on, please know that stress can be serious and cause concerning symptoms both mentally and physically. If you or someone you know is experiencing this kind of stress, please consult with your doctor or therapist.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough rest is crucial for managing stress levels effectively. When you’re tired, your body doesn’t have the energy to process stress efficiently. Instead, it hangs onto the chemicals stress produces, causing a cascade effect of struggling systems. Do everything in your power to get seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Additionally, try to rest during the day by taking frequent breaks, napping, or relaxing in a comfortable place for a few minutes.
Also, try to stick to a regular sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps your body regulate its natural sleep rhythm, which can make it easier to fall asleep at night and wake up feeling rested in the morning.
Exercise Regularly
Physical activity is a great way to relieve stress naturally. It helps to release endorphins, which have mood-boosting properties. Exercise can also help to improve sleep quality, which, as we just discussed, is vital for managing stress levels. Just make sure that you’re not overdoing it. Exercising too much can lead to increased levels of stress and anxiety. Find an activity that you enjoy and stick to a level of intensity that makes you feel good not overwhelmed.
If you don’t have time for a full workout, there are other ways to get moving throughout the day. For example, take a brisk walk around the block or do some stretches at your desk. Even small amounts of physical activity can help to alleviate stress.
Eat a Healthful Diet
What you eat can also affect your stress levels. For example, eating foods that are high in sugar or unhealthy fats can lead to spikes in energy followed by crashes, which can leave you feeling irritable and stressed out. Instead, focus on eating whole foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals. These nutrients are essential for maintaining a balanced mood and keeping stress hormones under control. Some great stress-busting foods include salmon, blueberries, avocados, nuts, and dark chocolate. So make sure to incorporate these into your diet if you’re looking to relieve stress naturally.
Try Natural Supplements/Herbs
There are many types of supplements that help relieve stress, anxiety, and other mental challenges. Some of my favorites are L-Theanine, Magnesium, CBD oil, and Pregnenolone. Of course, ask your health care provider for their advice about dosages and types of supplementation that would help in your specific situation. Some women are also tying things like cbd cigarettes to relieve stress.
Spend Time with Loved Ones
Finally, one of the best ways to reduce stress is to spend time with people who make you feel happy and relaxed. Whether it’s a close friend, family member, or even your pet, spending time with those you love can help to release feel-good chemicals into your body. Talking to someone about what’s causing you anxiety can also be helpful. Just knowing that you have someone to talk to who understands what you’re going through can be a huge relief.
So there you have it! These are four ways that you can naturally relieve stress. Just remember that everyone copes with stress differently, so find what works best for you and stick with it. And if you’re ever feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a loved one or professional for support.
**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Women’s lifelink, its owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors, and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.