Chronic stress has a detrimental impact on your health. Here are ways to manage stress to help you be your best self.
Stress: Signs and symptoms
Stress is a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. The way you respond to stressors is important; it can either worsen or improve stress levels. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of stress is the first step towards managing it effectively.
Some common signs and symptoms of stress include:
Difficulty remembering, focusing, or concentrating
Fatigue and low energy
Trouble sleeping
Increased cravings and hunger
Irritability and depression
Headaches
Weight gain
Basic ways to reduce cortisol levels
Chronic stress leads to high levels of cortisol, which can result in depression, weight gain, and heart disease. Reducing cortisol levels, therefore, is crucial for maintaining good health.
Some basic ways to reduce cortisol levels include:
Ensuring quality sleep
Staying hydrated
Regular movement or exercise
Healthy eating with protein at most meals
Decreasing caffeine intake
Spending time outside to get vitamin D and fresh air
Other ways to reduce stress
Besides managing cortisol levels, there are other effective strategies to reduce stress:
Reflecting on what is within your control versus what is out of your control
Practicing gratitude, volunteering, and engaging in random acts of kindness
Moving your body through activities like yoga, tai chi, and dancing
Spending time with animals
Practicing mindfulness activities such as breathing exercises, meditation, and puzzles
Connecting with others
Creative expression through playing or listening to music, drawing, coloring, or painting
Spending time in nature by walking or simply being present by just sitting
Laughter
Chronic stress is a detriment to health, but there are many ways to manage it effectively. By recognizing the signs and symptoms of stress, you can take proactive steps to reduce its impact. Managing stress is not about eliminating it completely but learning how to navigate it in healthier, more productive ways, allowing you to feel and be your best self.