Contributed by: Ciara Floyd, M.S., NSCF-CPT, NSCA-CSCS
Many people deal with stress and anxiety on a daily basis. The cause of
stress or anxiety can stem from things you have control over, such as
your family or your health choices, or from matters outside of your
control such as a co-worker. No matter the source, a high level of
stress and anxiety can have a negative impact on your overall health.
Below are a few things that you can change to decrease the amount of
stress and anxiety in your life.
Exercise – Regular exercise and physical activity can decrease stress
hormones, elevate mood, and improve sleep quality.
Essential Oils – Many essential oils such as lavender, sandalwood, and
rose are soothing, with calming scents.
Caffeine intake – Although coffee can be safe and healthy in
moderation, the stimulant effect could cause you to be jittery or
anxious. Each individual has a different tolerance, so if you notice
that you are consistently anxious or jittery, try cutting back on your
caffeine intake.
Laugh – It is hard to think about what is causing you stress or anxiety
while you are laughing. Laughing can also relieve muscle tension. Try
watching a funny television show, online video, or hanging out with
friends that make you laugh.
Yoga – Try taking a yoga class to decrease stress. The goal of all yoga
classes is to connect the body and mind. This can lead to a decrease in
stress hormones as well as blood pressure.
Practice Mindfulness – Mindfulness can be described as living in the
present. Many daily stressors are things that people cannot control at
that moment. Mindfulness opposes the negative thinking that can lead to
anxiety.
It is no surprise that there are many causes for stress and anxiety.
Although it is not possible or probable to totally eliminate stress and
anxiety, some of these techniques can help negate the negative effects
on your health.
Reference: Authority Nutrition, 2016