Covid-19 has created unprecedented stress and strain on human psyches. Are you stressed and feeling stuck? We are all battling with survival stress at the moment. Stress can have harmful effects on our mental as well as physical health. While it is probably not possible to eliminate stress from our lives, we can try to avoid it, accept some things as they are, make some alterations in our lifestyle and adopt a lifestyle with reduced stress.
We can’t control circumstances, but we can control how we respond to them. When you’re stressed, your immune system is impaired because your body is ready for flight or fight. When you’re calm, your immune system is activated to protect you from diseases.
Turn off the news and take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to social media. Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling. Encourage positive thinking. Basic self-care not only makes you feel great but will also keep your immune system strong and your emotions balanced.
Take care of your body and mind:
Eat healthy, well-balanced meals. Nutrition is very important - balance the right amount of serotonin-releasing carbohydrates, dopamine-releasing protein, and nutrient-rich fruit and vegetables, along with omega-3s to improve mood and cognitive function
Practice healthy habits, including exercise. Walk, run or stretch - whichever best suits you for a quick way to reduce stress hormones and connect with nature. Yoga or Pilates - try an online class or, better still, make mindful exercise a regular practice to ensure a less anxious, stronger, and happier state
Get in water - water is immensely calming (our most natural state) so dip in the river, sea, or bath to induce a meditative effect
Forest bathing - spend time amongst trees to increase happiness and immunity and reduce stress and blood pressure. Take an extra second to notice nature, the sky.
Walk on grass/earth - walking barefoot on a natural surface has physiological benefits, not least in calming you and decreasing muscle tension
Focus on gratitude – this reduces stress hormones and raises your frequency
Be kind - pay it forward; not only will the recipient benefit (and is more likely to do the same for someone), but you will too by producing heart-calming oxytocin⠀
Breathe - take time for a few deep-breathing exercises to help relax you, calm nerves and reduce anxiety
Animal therapy - stroking pets can lower blood pressure and release oxytocin. Also, consider equine therapy, or mindfully watching animals wherever you live⠀
Learn something new (as simple as trying a new recipe), continue to expand and grow
Practice good sleep hygiene (8+ at night)
If you have any health-related questions, please call Century Medical at (978) 594-8980 or contact us online.