Put Stress in it's Proper Place
Stress and anxiety.
It’s a feeling experienced by everyone. Sometimes you might feel like you’re barely hanging on, and at other times you might be tempted to leave all your stress behind and go on an impromptu hiatus. Trust me, we’ve all been there. And while some stress can have positive effects on your life, too much can really wreak havoc on your health. This negative stress can stem from a seemingly endless list of culprits—relationships, work, finances, loneliness, depression, unmet expectations, health problems, and so on. Then if you’re not good at managing stress, it can cause all kinds of issues with your digestion, heart, immune system, as well as headaches, sleep problems, anxiety, irritability, mood disorders, a lack of motivation or focus, and the list goes on. Just reading that causes stress!
Now stress is a natural response to the challenges you face every day, and when it hits, certain hormones are released to help you deal with it. If you’re trying to lose weight and you’re continually feeling stressed out, these hormones can cause you to gain weight or make it really difficult to lose weight if you don’t deal with stress in productive ways.
So how can you put the stresses of life in their proper place? Check out these stress-fighting guidelines:
Be aware of what causes your stress. It’s easier to do something about it if you’re aware of it. Track your stress levels and triggers.
Exercise regularly. Not only will you burn calories, but when you work out, biochemicals are released that help you feel better.
Get enough sleep. Believe me, I know how hard this can be. I also know life goes much better, no matter how stressful it is, when I get enough sleep. *easier said than done, I know*
Make time to relax. Even just a few minutes. Breathe deep.
Be grateful. There is always something to be grateful for, and when you can focus on the positive, the negative gets put in its proper place.
Eat regular, healthy meals.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can actually increase your stress and decrease your blood sugar levels.
Build strong relationships with family and friends. It’s always good to have people you can vent to, rely on, go to for advice, and simply have fun with!
Make time to do things you enjoy.
Serve others. It’ll help put your own problems into their proper perspective, and it always feels awesome to help someone in need.
The stresses of life can make you stronger, more giving, and an all-around better person when you’re able to deal with them in positive ways. You can do this!
Xoxo, MK
