Healthy diet. A balanced diet can support a healthy immune system and the repair of damaged cells. It provides the extra energy needed to cope with stressful events. Early research suggests that certain foods like polyunsaturated fats including omega-3 fats and vegetables may help to regulate cortisol levels. If you frequently rely on fast food because you are tired or too busy to prepare meals at home, consider meal planning , a practice that can help save time in the long run, ensure more balanced healthful meals, and prevent weight gain. Mindful eating.
When we “stress-eat,” we eat quickly without noticing what or how much we’re eating, which can lead to weight gain.
Use your strengths and skills to make a positive plan to address the stressful events in your life and how you’re reacting to stress. Whether your stress is internal or external, relaxation techniques can help you manage stress and boost your ability to cope. There are many different techniques, and it’s important you find the ones that work for you. Examples include slow breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness , meditation , yoga , and exercise. Read more here on relaxation techniques for stress relief. A friend or family member can also be a great source of support, but at times you may feel you need help from a professional.
Try a Reading Well book
Take your mind off it. Do something you enjoy and that will distract you for a while like listening to music, reading, baking or crafts. Eat healthily and consume fresh foods. Change your mindset and adopt a positive attitude. Take a break from social media. Comparing yourself and your productivity to others is a recipe for disaster. Laugh. Laughing out load actually increases oxygen and blood flow, which immediately reduces stress. Spend time with a funny friend, watch something silly or book tickets to the local comedy club.
'self-care is really important when we are facing challenges and experiences that have the potential to overwhelm us and create stress,' adds louise.
Stress is emotional or physical tension created by a perceived challenge, demand, or threat. In some cases, a stressor might be a singular occurrence or event. Stressors may accumulate over time before surfacing. Some common stress triggers include: feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities or pressure due to work, family issues, or school worry about a situation where there isn’t much control over the outcome experiencing conflict, like an argument with a friend or loved one encountering sudden and/or major life changes issues concerning money, health, work, or relationships information communicated by the news or other media outlets a traumatic experience where numerous people are in danger of being significantly hurt or even killed.