The Harms Of Stress And How To Easily Reduce It
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Why is stress harmful?
Stress is harmful because it can cause physical and mental health problems.
When we are stressed, our bodies release cortisol and adrenaline, hormones that put us in a state of heightened alertness.
This can cause a wide range of health issues like headaches, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating. In the long term, chronic stress can lead to depression and anxiety, as well as exacerbate existing conditions like hypertension, diabetes, asthma, and may even affect fertility.
And you may have noticed lately that infertility is skyrocketing in both men and women, so we need to do all we can to help ourselves as well.
Therefore, it is important to manage stress in order to maintain overall health and wellbeing.
That is why I harp on self care so much! It really is that important ✨
15 ways stress can impact your well being
- It can lead to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.
- It can cause physical health problems such as headaches, high blood pressure, and chest pain.
- It can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- It can make you more prone to illnesses like colds and flu.
- It can lead to insomnia and other sleep problems.
- It can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illness and infection.
- It can cause digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome.
- It can affect libido, leading to a decrease in sex drive. And who wants that!?
- It can cause fatigue and a lack of energy.
- It can lead to poor concentration, making it difficult to focus and think clearly.
- It can contribute to unhealthy habits such as overeating or smoking.
- It can lower your motivation and make it harder to find joy in activities.
- It can lead to increased irritability and a short temper.
- It can cause difficulty in relationships, leading to communication problems and resentment.
- It can lead to a decrease in productivity, making it difficult to accomplish tasks.
Anything else I should add to the list?
Stress can cause so many issues, which is why it is so important to find ways to reduce that stress!
Are you looking for easy tips to reduce your stress levels?
Keep reading to see 11 easy tips you can try today
You can also sign up for my new wellness program! I will meet with you weekly to help you learn about nutrition, wellness, stress reduction techniques, yoga and meditation, and much more!
Check out more info about my program here.
Contact me today to set up a discovery call ?
Top 11 easy ways to reduce stress
1). Exercise – Regular physical activity can reduce stress and help you relax. You can walk, run, do yoga, Pilates, boot camp, kickboxing, spin, or HIT training. Whatever you want to do! Sometimes when I am super stressed I either go for a walk, do a yoga session, or jump on my elliptical machine to burn some energy. It usually does help!
2). Spend time outdoors – Being in nature can help reduce stress and anxiety. Even just a walk around your neighborhood can improve your mood.
3). Get enough sleep – Lack of sleep can lead to higher stress levels. Make sure you get at least 8-9 hours of sleep per night!
Did you know that women need more sleep than men? It’s mainly because men just run on a 24 hour schedule, while women also have an infradian cycle. Should I do a post on cycle syncing? I would love to do a deep dive on what cycle syncing is and how to start slowly incorporating the practices into your life.
Comment below with what you think. Have you heard of cycle syncing before?
4). Practice yoga or meditation – These activities can help relax your mind and body. You can also book a private session online with me!
5). Talk to someone – Talking to a friend or family member can help you to process your thoughts and feelings. Call your best friend, your husband, or maybe even your mom and talk it out!
6). Take deep breaths – Deep breathing can help to slow your heart rate and lower your blood pressure.
7). Listen to music – Listening to calming music can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Throw on some meditation music, some classical music, or maybe even some hard rock if that helps you. Sometimes I like to put on a rap or rock song and dance and jump around and get some energy out! Dance like no one is watching ?
Do you have a favorite Bluetooth speaker that you use? I got two Bose speakers for my wedding and I am obsessed with them. I think I use it just about everyday. I love to listen to music or a podcast while I shower and get ready in the morning. This is the Bose speaker that I am using right now! Click below:
8). Write in a journal – Writing down your thoughts and feelings can provide an outlet for stress.
There are so many cute journals you can find on Amazon. This is what I am currently using, but in a coral color, and I love it! I have about 50 pages left before I need to buy another one. It’s easy to write in, SUPER cute, and lays flat so it’s easy to write in. Click below for more details.
9). Spend time with friends and family – Social support can help to reduce stress levels. You could even go on a little hike with a friend! Being out in the sun in nature is an amazing way to relax and unwind.
10). Do something creative – Creative activities like art, music, and writing can help to reduce stress. Have you tried using an adult coloring book? They are actually pretty fun and very relaxing! You can even download digital ones and use them on your iPad. Check out these coloring books that I love !
11). Drink some matcha, tea, or coffee and sit in the sun. This can be a great way to relax and unwind and regroup when you feel stressed.
What is your favorite way to reduce your stress levels?
Do you find that these are easy tips to follow, or do you have a hard time following a consistent self care routine?
And as alway, contact me today if you want help working on your health and wellness goals!
Remember that this is a lifestyle change!
There are no quick fixes.
You have to work at it everyday.
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