Ninety percent of us consider stress an inevitable part of our lives but it does not have to be that way. We all know what it feels to be like under stress. Yet most of us do not know why we experienced this condition. Let us look at how stress works. Doctors call the body’s reaction to stressful events general adaptation syndrome. During tense times, our bodies release adrenaline and corticosteroids. This reaction of the fight or flight response was designed to help man defend him self.
The fight or flight response is healthy in small doses. Unfortunately, exposure to continuous stressors like traffic jams or piles of work causes many of us to remain in this heightened state for hours or even days. The result of this constant attention includes both short term effects like tense muscles and rapid heart rate and long term ones like high blood pressure, a weakened immune system and depression.
The good news is we have got ten tips that can help. Let us start with diet. Research has shown that B complex and C vitamins and the minerals magnesium and zinc can to help to ease stress symptoms. Vitamin C and magnesium lowers stress levels because they help the brain produce seratonin, a hormone that regulates mood.
Zinc and vitamin B complex fight free radicals, a term that refers to toxins found in the air and the harmful by-products of digestion. Fresh vegetables, fruits, almonds, fish and whole grains contain these essential vitamins and minerals and they are great stress busting foods.
You can also combat stress with the supplement. St. John’s wort is an herb that inhibits stress hormones and increases serotonin levels in the brain. Your approach can help, too. Remembering that tension is a natural part of life can help curb your response to it. Take a minute to remind yourself that this too shall pass.
Sometimes a gentle touch or acupressure can relieve stress. One point Lu 1 is priced for easing emotional stress and tense breathing. Find Lu 1 by sitting in a comfortable chair with your back straight. Use your thumbs to press the outside of your upper chest just below your first rib. Maintain pressure for one minute.
Another effective way to end your stress response is with simple meditation. For best results, set aside ten to twenty minutes for calm reflection. If you prefer more formal approach, try this yoga meditation technique. Sit quietly with eyes closed, pick a short phrase or word that calms you like ohm or peace. Repeat the word as you clear your mind and relax your muscles.
When meditating, always remember to breathe, deep relaxing breathe in and out through the nose help relieve stress even without meditation, just five minutes of deep breathing can be quite beneficial and finally, if you are feeling stressed, take a time out to do something you enjoy. Your body and mind will thank you.
Stress is no fun but with the little know-how, you can control your response to it ensuring a calmer, happier you.
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