Healthy habits can safeguard your body from the effects of stress.
Some effective strategies to manage stress include:
Spending time with friends and family. Get out and make new friends! Being social has benefits for your health. Having a friend, family member or partner with whom you can share your joys and concerns can go a long way toward managing stress and optimizing your health.
Engaging in regular physical activity. Physically active people have a lower risk of depression. According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise pumps up the production of your brain’s “feel good” neurotransmitters, called endorphins. It improves mood and increases the quality of sleep.
A positive attitude is key. Laughter really is the best medicine. It triggers healthy physical changes in the body, strengthening the immune system and boosting energy.
Giving up the bad habits.Too much alcohol, caffeine or cigarettes can put a lot of extra stress on your body.
Getting enough sleep. If you are already under a lot of stress you may be having trouble getting a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately, the lack of good quality sleep can add to stress. Try to get six to eight hours of sleep a night. Daily exercise can help you get the sleep you need.
Getting organized. A messy, disorganized environment increases stress levels. Approach large projects one step at a time.
Practicing giving back. Volunteering with your favorite cause can help take the focus off your own difficulties as well as benefiting those in need.
Just a few small changes can equal lower stress levels and a healthier life!
