We all have stress in our life. Sometimes, the stress can keep building and becomes really overwhelming. Stress effects every single part of our body (physical, mental and emotional health), so it’s really important to know how you can cope with stress using small and practical steps.
Most people tend to downplay the amount of stress they are experiencing. But the truth is that it is 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 better able to handle the stress.
What are the effects of stress on the body?
- 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 other minerals
- 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
How can I reduce or cope better with stress?
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’s how you can learn to reduce stress:
- 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 mins for yourself – where you’re not taking care of anyone else or being “productive” – so you can just relax, play and do something mindless?
- Look at your calendar for tomorrow. Where can you fit in a 10 minute walk? The fresh air and movement will help feel better, and it’s a great way to clear your head.
- Breathe!! Don’t forget to consciously breathe! We can actually trick out brains into thinking we are not stressed or anxious when we focus on our breathing. So, when you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious, take 2 minutes and breathe.
The ability to properly cope with stress is a must if you want to be productive, calm and happy! It’s OK to admit that you are stressed out! Ask for help, people are much more willing to help you than you think!
To your health!
Emily Grinton