Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a technique that involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. Mindfulness is NOT meditation (not necessarily, though it can be). It can help us become more aware of our thoughts and feelings, which can be helpful in managing stress. Importantly, by focusing on the present moment we’re not focusing on the future and all of the the things in it that we’re worried about.
Practicing mindfulness can be done in many ways, including meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga. However, it can even be practiced in simple every day moments like making a cup of coffee or walking the dog. All you have to do, is be completely present in the moment (aka forget everything else).
Practicing mindfulness can be an effective way to calm the mind and reduce stress levels, slow down your heart rate and promote relaxation, and to train your mind to be more present and less reactive to stressors.
Get Moving!
You had to know it was coming, but I’m going to say it anyway! Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural chemicals that can improve our mood and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
Regular exercise can also help us sleep better, which is essential for managing stress levels. It’s recommended that we aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day, most days of the week.
Take Care of Your Body
Taking care of our bodies is crucial for managing stress effectively. Eating a healthy and balanced diet can help us feel better physically and mentally.
It’s important to aim for a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Additionally, limiting our intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol can help us feel more energized and focused. You know what they say, you are what you eat.
Getting enough sleep is also crucial for managing stress levels. Most adults need between 7-9 hours of sleep per night to function at their best. If we’re having trouble sleeping, practicing relaxation techniques before bedtime, such as a warm bath or reading a book, can help us unwind and prepare for restful sleep.
Connect With Others
Social connections can be an essential component of stress management. Talking to friends or family members about our stressors can help us gain perspective and feel less isolated. In addition, you’ll find that the people who love you also want to help you. Having a healthy support system means having people around who can help reduce your stress either by talking things through, or helping you solve problems and knock things off of your to do list.
However, family and friends are not the only option for social connections that help manage stress. Joining a support group or participating in a community activity can also be helpful. These activities can provide a sense of belonging and support, which can be especially important during times of stress.
Additionally, volunteering our time and energy to help others can give us a sense of purpose and improve our overall well-being. By focusing on the needs of others, we can shift our attention away from our own stressors and gain a new perspective on life.
Final Thoughts
Stress is an inevitable part of life, and not always a bad thing. However if you find that you’re a little too stressed, there are many ways to manage it effectively. By practicing mindfulness, getting active, connecting with others, and taking care of our bodies, we can reduce our stress levels and improve our overall quality of life.
This Stress Management Month, let’s take the time to prioritize our mental and physical health and find ways to cope with stress in a healthy and positive way. Remember, small changes can make a big difference when it comes to managing stress. And remember – seeing as the body holds stress if not managed correctly- we WILL know if you’ve been following these tips or not when you come in for your next adjustment, so we’re watching you!
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