The Holiday Season is a great time to talk about stress. Here are 5 ways to help you manage or reduce your stress during what is usually an extra busy time for most. Hopefully these tips will help you to continue to feel less stress long after the holiday season is over.
1. GET MOVING
Raising your activity level can help to reduce stress levels and can serve as a distraction from negative thoughts and emotions.
Rhythmic exercises like dancing, swimming and walking are most effective.
2. BE SOCIAL
Talking to someone face to face helps release hormones that reduce stress. A short conversation with feelings of understanding and friendliness can have a calming and soothing effect on your nervous system.
3. CUT SODIUM AND INCREASE POTASSIUM
Elevated levels of sodium can weaken the body's natural responses to stress by negatively affecting stress hormones that would otherwise be activated in stressful situations. Potassium lessens the effects of sodium. Consume fruits and veggies rich in potassium, like bananas and sweet potatoes.
4. RELAX
Stress cannot be eliminated from life, but it can be controlled by directing your thoughts to the right place. Meditation can calm your mood and reduce stress.
5. PRIORITIZE SLEEP
Being tired only makes stress worse. Adults need 7-9 hours of sleep every night, make sure to get the sleep you need. Following a bedtime routine will help.
