Managing Stress
Eat stress-reducing foods:
Broccoli, Asparagus, & Spinach – magnesium (reduces stress), B vitamins and folic acid (help improve mood and regulate sleep)
Cantaloupe, Oranges, & Lemons – vitamin C (helps reduce levels of cortisol)
Blueberries – vitamin C and antioxidants
Almonds & Walnuts – vitamin B2, vitamin E (powerful antioxidant), magnesium, zinc (increases resistance to infection)
Avocado – B vitamins
Salmon & Fish – omega 3s keep cortisol and adrenaline from spiking
Oatmeal – increases calm-inducing serotonin
Reflection
Take a minimum of 5 minutes a day to pray, meditate, journal, listen to soothing music, or take an Epsom salt bath. It will help reduce stress hormones.
Deep-Breathing
When we become stressed, our breathing becomes shallow and sometimes we may find we are holding our breath. In an upright position and keeping your back straight, breathe in deeply through your nose filling your abdomen and then exhaling slowly and fully through your mouth. Repeat several times.
Exercise
Physical activity will help reduce the effects of the “fight or flight” response. Try to walk for at least 20-30 min. It will help clear your head and you will always feel better afterwards. Even better if you can walk with someone who can be a supportive listener.
Sleep
Eight or more hours a night of uninterrupted sleep is recommended for restoration and repair. The best time range to go to bed that will be most beneficial is between 9:00 PM and midnight because it is a more natural sleep pattern due to the sun.
We’ve talked about the 3 Stages of Stress, so now let’s talk about techniques in managing life’s stressors.
The 4 A’s to Managing Stress
Avoid – Try to avoid unnecessary stress by planning and being prepared. • Prioritize all the things you need to do
- Make a “To-do” list and check-off as you complete
- Just say “no”. Learn how to say “yes to the person but “no” to the task. Explain why you are unable to commit currently
Alter – If you can’t avoid the stressor, try to change it.
- Be more assertive in dealing with the problem
- Communicate your concerns in a respectful way
- Try to reach a compromise
Adapt – If you can’t alter the stressor, can you change yourself?
- Try to change your viewpoint
- Focus on the positives of the situation
- Try to look at the bigger picture
Accept – If you can’t adapt, learn to accept what you can’t change
- Look for the upside to the situation. See if this can be a learning or growth opportunity
- Practice forgiveness
In Health,
Nutritional Wellness & Chiropractic