Women are very busy these days, as a
matter of fact they have always been. And as women, we know that
unfortunately, most of the time we don't prioritize our health.
Let us think, for a second, what causes stress in our life? Well,
if I say emotions and bad food choices, will you believe me? I am
not sure, but it is true. To feel and look good we have to find
balance in our lifestyle and in our body.
As we remember, cortisol, the hormone your body produces when you
are stressed, increases your appetite and promotes inflammation,
reducing the body's sensitivity to metabolic hormones. To reduce
cortisol levels and normalize your metabolism, you must relax.
No time to de-stress? Think again! You can lower your stress
level in a second with these on-the-spot mood boosters.
* Start laughing.
Studies show that even forced laughter lowers cortisol and blood
pressure instantly.
* Start singing.
Recent studies show that singing your favorite tunes is more
beneficial than simply listening to them.
* Start repeating three-five words phrase.
Repeat continuously three-five words phrase while you are in a
traffic jam, waiting in the dentist's office or before your
important presentation. The repetition clears your mind and this is
exactly what you need when you are stressed out. Phrases like I am
calm, I am beautiful, I am strong, I don't care will help you and
not only with stress but also in a lot of different situations,
because our brain believes our words.
* Stop and enjoy the nature.
When you daydream, watch a bird in flight, stare up at the
clouds, enjoy the ocean or a beautiful flower, your mind is fixed on
one thought and that is a form of meditation, one of the powerful
relaxation techniques. You can also use imagery meditation sitting
quietly and picturing some place, thing, or activity that makes you
feel calm. Study shows that meditation also changes blood flow to
the brain and decreases anxiety while it improves other mental
functions. If you live in a big city, store window with a dress you
like will do the trick.
* Call your friend or talk to your pet.
Study shows that making conversation with someone you care about
causes the same kind of positive physiological changes that a
massage does. To express your feelings and thoughts you can either
call a friend or talk to your pet (pets are even better listeners).
* Take a walk.
Some fresh air and moderate exercise can help clear your mind and
frustration or anger.
* Squeeze a squishy ball.
Start squeezing something, such as a squishy ball, to work away
your tension.
* Have some de-stress snack.
Chillies have been known as mood lifter, depression fighter, and
one of the most powerful de-stress super foods, because they release
mood-boosting endorphins. So keep a jar of salsa in your
refrigerator.
* Have some Dark Chocolate.
Studies show that Dark Chocolate (70-75% of cocoa and higher) not
only low blood pressure and clear the arteries, but also improves
mood by boosting serotonin and endorphin levels in the brain. Take a
piece of dark chocolate, close your eyes and relax.
If we don't take care of ourselves, nobody will, but if something
happens to us, who will take care of our children, our family?
Studies show that more than 800.000 people a day take time off work
because of a stress related illnesses. Let us be stress smart.
By Irina Wardas is a founder of NaturalCounselor.com and works
with women who have stress or weight management issues. To learn
more about her Women's Health and Wellness Programs and e-Books
or sign up for her free Newsletter
go to NaturalCounselor.com
