Our bodies are a miracle. We have ancient mechanisms that can detect threats to our survival. One of the reasons humans have survived is our 'fight or flight' response to danger. When a threat is detected, hormones are released into the body to prepare us to react. But this is a problem in our modern world. Our ancient brains can not distinguish between real and unreal threats. Our bodies are reacting to perceived threats all the time. So, we can suffer from chronic stress from work and daily worries. This can lead to chronic elevated cortisol levels. This leads to weight gain especially around the abdomen. So, reducing your daily stress can help you reduce your waistline. Here's some stress management techniques to help you reduce your stress: REDUCE YOUR SCREEN TIME ON ALL ELECTRONIC DEVICES Your primitive brain has difficulty determining if a threat is real or perceived. So, violent movies, video games or agitating social media and T as a threat to your body. Whenever possible, leave your cell phone behind. Or at least turn it off. TAKE A BREAK
USE THE POWER OF BREATH
WATCH WHAT YOU PUT IN YOUR MOUTH
BRING SOME NATURE INTO YOUR HOME
WATER THERAPY
BRING BACK SOME CHILDHOOD FAVORITES
CONNECT WITH YOUR SPIRITUAL SELF
GET PHYSICAL Sweaty exercise or physical work, especially outdoors, are the perfect stress busters. This type of movement tires out the big muscles in the body naturally. You are letting your body do the work and it gives your brain a much-needed break from the stresses of the day. You get to work out your aggravations in a healthy way. GET SOME SLEEP Getting enough sleep is by far the most effective stress-management technique. The average adult needs 6-8 hours of restorative sleep every night. People that suffer from chronically elevated cortisol usually have trouble sleeping. But if you implement as many of my strategies for reducing stress as you can, you will sleep like a baby. Here’s to a great night’s sleep. The more of these you can incorporate into your life, the better you will feel. This is a long game to battle chronic stress and requires a lifestyle change. Some fun and easy tweaking to your daily life could save your life. So, get out of your head and back into your body. We’ve only got one body to carry us through this journey so take care of it. |
Karen WarwickI am not a doctor but I am a RHN. Here is what I would do, if I were you. Archives
May 2022
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