Did
you know that 85% of primary care doctor visits might be due to stress-related
causes? Stress is often referred to as the silent killer, and it can manifest in actual physical symptoms.
Image
and tips from https://www.bluezones.com/2012/03/maximize-health-and-longevity-using-these-stress-management-strategies/
Here
are several tips from the BLUE ZONES® that might help you fight the stress in your life:
Tip
1: Keep a Daily Stress Journal
This will
help identify how much stress you are under, potential stress triggers, and
ways to reduce stress in your life. Take 15 minutes a day to describe any event
that caused you to become stressed and any resulting emotional or physical
response. Over time, you will be able to identify patterns, which will help you
develop healthy management strategies.
MY
NOTE: This makes sense to me! If you can measure it, you can devise the ways to
manage it!
Tip 2: Learn
To Say ‘No’ When You Have Too Many Activities in Your Schedule
Saying no
when you are reaching your limit can be very empowering! People will respect
your boundaries and be more appreciative of your time when you do agree to take
on a favor or additional responsibility. Be firm but polite. Practice saying
“no” in the mirror to gain confidence!
MY
NOTE: I agree! Often, we are reluctant to say ‘No' but if we are stressed and
unhappy, can we really help others?
Tip
3: Drink Water
This may
surprise you, but keeping your body hydrated will help you feel better, improve
your mood and ensure your body is getting the nutrients it needs. Your body
produces the hormone cortisol in response to stress. Dehydration, even by
levels as low as 17 oz (just over two glasses) increases cortisol levels in
your body.
MY
NOTE: This definitely surprised me! I was not aware of the link between dehydration
and cortisol.
Tip
4: Eat Well
In addition
to drinking water, pay attention to what
you eat: Diets high in fiber and low in saturated fat have
a positive effect on overall mood. B vitamins,
especially folic acid (folate) and vitamin B12 are known to help prevent
mood disorders, including depression.
I
would also add Tip 5: Get Plenty of Sleep and Tip 6: Add Movement to Each Day!
What did you think? Drop me a line!
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