3 Quick Stress Busters to Kick Start your February
Another year of winter has finally begun. For many of us, winter takes a certain toll on our mental health. There’s less light, everyone seems to be sick, and we’re forced to bundle up or forego our outdoors runs.
The first months of the New Year are, therefore, a good time to take a look at your stress levels. Your mental wellbeing naturally plays a significant role in your physical health, and should not be overlooked in the journey of bettering yourself.
Some signs that you might be experiencing high levels of stress (if you’re not already aware!) include trouble concentrating in your life, constant illnesses, constant headaches, back and neck pain, trouble sleeping, digestion issues, and even hair loss. While stress, in nature, is meant as a response to pressure or threats, the flood of stress hormones it puts your body through can be very harmful. We recommend the following:
- Make yourself a healthy snack
It’s always nice to give yourself a treat when you’re upset and anxious, and there’s no better treat for you than a healthy snack!
Some healthy snacks to consider:
-Spinach: Spinach contains folate, which produces dopamine, a pleasure-inducing chemical.
-Oatmeal: Carbohydrates have been found to help the brain produce serotonin, which is the same chemical regulated by the use of antidepressants. Oatmeal is an especially healthy carb, and contains good amounts of fiber as an extra boost!
-Yogurt: Some scientists think that the bacteria in your gut may actually contribute to your stress levels! Eat some yogurt to regulate those bacteria.
-Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate has been found to reduce stress hormones, and adds antioxidants to your diet.
You can also fruit, veggies, nuts, or a delicious, stress-busting blueberry smoothie! Blueberries, too, are thought by some to have stress fighting properties!
- Meditate
Take a little time for yourself whenever you find yourself experiencing any of the symptoms listed above. Scientists think that regular meditation can alter the brain’s neural pathways, which can make you more resistant to stress.
Simply sit still, close your eyes, and take deep, cleansing breaths. A quick search online will turn up countless guided meditations, if that’s your thing.
Yoga, too, has been found to be very beneficial to fighting stress. It has the added bonus of physical movement, and is known to improve your mood. The concentration involved in the more complicated yoga poses will take your mind off the things that are stressing you out, and help you reach a more zen-like mindset.
- Laugh
Laughter is one of the easiest stress-busters out there. It’s not always easy to find something amusing when your brain is flooding your body with adrenaline, so get creative! Find what makes you smile. Watch a comedic television show. Go to a stand up performance. Watch silly cat videos on the internet. Whatever gets a smile on your face!
