Stress is a normal part of life. Everyone experiences it at some point in life, even children. While it may seem like a bad thing, stress can be useful. It triggers a flight or fight response in your body, which helps you be quick on your feet in emergency situations and forces you to think fast to solve problems.
However, too much stress is a bad thing. Studies show a connection between chronic stress and the development of health conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and even mental disorders, such as depression.
People with chronic stress have a lower quality of life and suffer health-wise. It is important to know how to manage your stress levels, so that it doesn’t take over your life.
Here are 6 ways you can relieve chronic stress.
1. Exercise
When you’re stressed, your body releases stress hormones – adrenaline and cortisol. When you exercise, your body releases feel-good hormones – endorphins – which are mood boosters and natural painkillers. Even heading out for a walk is beneficial, but stepping it up a notch with an exercise program is even better.
2. Practice Deep Breathing
You can relieve stress immediately by breathing deeply. Start by inhaling through your nose, letting your belly inflate, and then slowly breathe out through your nose. Do this several times until you feel relaxed. Take your time and do this activity in a quiet and relaxing space, if possible.
3. Surround Yourself With Sights That Make You Happy
Everyone gets stressed at work. However, it help to surround yourself with things that make you smile — a picture of your loved ones or pet, an inspiring quote, and plants are just a few examples. You can even play relaxing music to keep stress at bay.
4. Practice Mindfulness Meditation
This is often included in the treatment of chronic stress because it effectively reduces stress and anxiety. Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on the present while curtailing stress responses. You focus on your present thoughts and emotions and let them pass through you. Mindfulness meditation can clear your thoughts and restore your peace. It should be practice regularly for better effects.
5. Make Sure To Get Quality Sleep
When you sleep, your brain recharges and is able to tackle stress and activities better. If there’s an event that causes stress, a well-rested and relaxed brain can prevent the overproduction of stress hormones. Deep, restorative sleep helps you relax and step away from worries. When you don’t get enough sleep, your brain doesn’t get a chance to take a break. Moreover, a lack of sleep can also trigger production of stress hormones, which can make it difficult to fall asleep, making you even more stressed and mentally tired the next day.
6. Seek Help for Chronic Stress
Sometimes, you just need professional help to manage chronic stress and anxiety. A wellness specialist, physician, or a mental health expert can help you with this. They can help you adopt better lifestyle choices and recommend treatments and techniques to get your stress under control.
Chronic Stress Treatment in Minneapolis
Dr. Jeffrey Kotulski and his team of wellness providers at Between the Bridges Healing Center can help you overcome chronic stress that is detrimental to your mental, emotional, and physical health.
Schedule a consultation by calling (507) 388-7488 or request an appointment now.
