FeStress is a natural feeling of not being able to cope with specific demands and events. However, stress can become a chronic condition if you don't take steps to manage it effectively.
The truth is that it's so important to acknowledge stress so you can reduce it or cope with it a little better. Think of it like aiming for a 1% improvement….you may not be able to change the stressors in your life, but if you can manage the impact on your body 1% better, then you’ll stay healthier and be more equipped to handle the stress.
I’m the first person to pretend that stress is no big deal, so if you’re like me, then the two of us need to have a “Come to Buddha” moment and get real about how stress IS affecting our bodies….
Here are 7 ways:
Stress increases cortisol production associated with weight gain (especially in the belly), an inability to lose weight or gain muscle and premature aging
Stress decreases nutrient absorption due to decreased enzymatic production from the stomach, pancreas and liver and decreased bile flow from the gall bladder
Stress increases nutrient excretion such as urinary loss of calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, chromium, selenium and microminerals
Stress decreases gut flora populations by destroying healthy intestinal bacteria and can lead to immune problems, skin disorders, nutrient deficiencies, and digestive distress
Stress increases salt retention which can lead to high blood pressure
Stress decreases the thyroid hormone which can negatively affect your metabolism
Stress decreases sex hormones which leads to loss of libido and low energy
But you’re not reading this just to talk about problems, you’re reading to find solutions! So read on…
Remember, since we can’t always control the stress in our lives, the goal is to reduce our experience of stress by even 1%.
Here are 5 ways you can reduce or cope better with stress—right NOW!
Look at your calendar for the next 7 days. What’s one activity you’ve committed to that you can cancel?
Look at your to-do list. What’s one item you can delegate to someone else in the next 24 hours?
Consider your schedule today. Where can you fit in 20 minutes for yourself —where you’re not taking care of anyone else or being “productive”—so you can just relax and play and do something mindless? Can't think of any ideas, then check out my blog, 60 Self-Care Ideas to Try Today.
Look at your calendar for tomorrow. Where can you fit in a 10-minute walk or Frisbee toss in your backyard? The fresh air and movement will help you cope waaay better with stress.
Before your next meal, try what I call the “5-5-7” breath. Inhale for a count of 5, hold your breath for a count of 5, then exhale for a count of 7. Repeat at least 3 times. This gives your body a chance to relax before your meal, which will increase your digestive capacity and help your body pull more nutrients from the food you’re eating.
If you feel too stressed to relax, and you KNOW it’s affecting your health, your weight and your energy levels, then click here NOW to schedule a time to talk with me about how to reduce or cope better with the stress in your life.
I’ve helped tons of clients solve this problem, and chances are very good that I can help you, too.