The occasional stressful event is part of life. Stress is the body’s way of helping us to focus so we can tackle the problem.
But when stress is on going, whether it’s from work demands or taking care of everybody but yourself – it can really take it’s toll on the body.
Chronic stress can result in all sorts of health problems such as hormonal disruption, heart disease and can even cause fat to gather around the middle.
Whilst we can’t always control stressful events from occurring, we can control whether we respond to them in a healthy or unhealthy way.
Follow these top 7 ways to deal with stress effectively and gain back serenity and control:
1) Keep your cool with 3 meals a day
Skipping meals can cause our blood sugar levels to drop. Low blood sugar not only stimulates the release of the stress hormone cortisol, but can leave us feeling tired, irritable and even tearful.
2) Ease your tension with magnesium
Known as ‘natures tranquilliser’, therefore ensuring you are meeting your daily magnesium requirements must if you’re feeling the tension. Magnesium is thought to help with sleep, resilience to stress and muscle relaxation.
Eat more dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fish, beans, whole grains, avocado yoghurt, dark chocolate
3) Calm your nerves with chamomile
Chamomile is a calming herb with and thought to reduce tension.
Chamomile can be consume daily as a tea, infused in oils or honey, and can even be added smoothies.
4) Unwind with a little bit of chocolate
New research has shown that eating a square dark chocolate a day can relieve emotional stress. It’s the high quantity of antioxidants called falvonols which are responsible for these positive effects.
Stick with dark, organic, unprocessed chocolate for maximum benefits.
5) Stay peaceful with deep breathing
The way you breathe can affect your whole body. By slowing your breathing down you can dramatically reduce anxiety and emotional intensity.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed simply perform 20 slow deep breaths.
6) Clear your thoughts with movement
Exercise one of the most potent stress relievers but also the most underutilised.
Take a brisk 5 minute walk to stimulate anti-anxiety effects, clear your thoughts and allow you to deal with your stressors more effectively.
7) Sleep deeply with a valerian root tea
Lack of sleep dramatically increases the output of our stress hormone cortisol. Fatigue also hinders our ability to deal with stressful situations.
Valerian root tea is most commonly used herb for sleep disorders and insomnia. Make a brew and drink one hour before bed time.
*Always consult with your GP prior to taking valerian root if on medication
