Stress! There is plenty to go around, but what can you do about it?
Americans are one of the most stressed out in the world. The current stress level experienced by Americans is 20 percentage points higher than the global average according to the American Institute of Stress. There are a lot of stressors out of our control…gas prices, the invasion of the Ukraine, work related stress and that’s just the beginning. Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure and heart disease, dampen immune system, and increased susceptibility to colds and other common infections. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was one small thing in our control that could help us day in and day out with stress? Don’t throw your hands up in exasperation…sanitize them. It may sound small, but using a hand-sanitizer to help ward off every day environmental threats can make a big impact on stress. ViroShield products offer piece of mind to help defend against germs and bacteria. One less worry…one less stressor. Let’s do the simple things that are in our control. It could add up to a make a big impact on your stress level.
You can also consider these 8 things to help relieve stress:
Listen to music
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by a stressful situation, try taking a break and listening to relaxing music or nature sounds. Playing calm music has a positive effect on the brain and body, can lower blood pressure, and reduce cortisol, a hormone linked to stress.
Talk to a friend
When you’re feeling stressed, take a break to call a friend. Sometimes you just need someone to listen. Good relationships with friends and loved ones are important to any healthy lifestyle.
Eat right
Stress levels can wreak havoc with your diet. When we’re overwhelmed, we often forget to eat well and resort to eating sugary, fatty foods as a pick-me-up. Try to choose a fruit or vegetable with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids which have been known to reduce symptoms of stress.
Laugh
Laughter releases endorphins that improve mood and decrease levels of the stress-causing hormones cortisol and adrenaline. Laughing tricks your nervous system into making you happy.
Try watching a comedy. Monty Python skits are always a favorite, “The Ministry of Silly Walks” is a great one. You’ll soon be tickling that funny bone and feeling stress-free.
Drink tea
Caffeine causes a short-term spike in blood pressure. It may also cause your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis to go into overdrive. Instead of coffee or energy drinks, try green tea. It has less than half the caffeine of coffee and contains healthy antioxidants, as well as theanine, an amino acid that has a calming effect on the nervous system.
Exercise
Exercise doesn’t mean you have to put on special gear and head to the gym. A short walk around the office or simply standing up to stretch during a break at work can offer immediate relief in a stressful situation. Getting your blood moving releases endorphins and can improve your mood almost immediately.
Sleep well
Stress can cause you to lose sleep and lack of sleep is also a key cause of stress. This vicious cycle causes the brain and body to get out of sync. Make sure to get seven to eight hours of sleep. Turn the TV off earlier, dim the lights, and give yourself time to relax before going to bed.
Breathe
The advice “take a deep breath” is a great de-stressor. One great way to breathe easy is to diffuse VIROSHIELD ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND which contains eight powerful essential oils that purify the air. Taking short breaths can exacerbate stress, while deep breathing oxygenates your blood and clears your mind.