Stress is simply a fact of life. How we react to it, however, can have a serious impact on our health. Stress has been linked to several life-threatening health issues such as high blood pressure, depression, and heart disease.
To protect your health and your sanity, here are six easy ways to lower your stress levels.
Exercise
It’s no secret that exercise has a number of benefits when it comes to our health. You may be surprised to find out that it is also an excellent way to reduce stress. When we workout, our body releases endorphins that improve your mood and also act as natural painkillers.
Exercise also reduces the amount of cortisol and other stress hormones in our bodies. Regular exercise such as cardio, weightlifting, and yoga are great ways to reduce anxiety. Plus, exercise can help you sleep better.
Mediation
While exercise is great for keeping your body in shape, meditation is the best method to keep your mind in shape. Just like your body, your mind needs to be trained. When we go through stressful times, we often worry about all the “what if” scenarios, increasing our anxiety.
Over time, our mind stays on hyperdrive trying to sort through the seemingly endless possibilities. Meditation teaches you to relax your mind, declutter your thoughts, and focus on what’s important. Find a few quiet moments each day to relax, and you will be amazed at the difference in your stress levels.
Head Outdoors
There are a couple of reasons to enjoy the outdoors on a daily basis. First, exposure to the sun’s rays allows your body to soak up some much-needed vitamin D. Many of us spend most of our time indoors, which can lead to a vitamin D deficiency. Lack of vitamin D has been linked to depression and other health issues.
In addition to providing vitamin D, nature is also excellent for reducing stress and anxiety. Walk around barefoot, and you can almost feel the stress seeping out of you and into the ground.
Spend time With Friends And Family
Going through stress alone often leads to worry and anxiety. When we get together with family and friends, we gain a sense of belonging and an improved self-worth. We can also talk about our problems, which is known to reduce stress.
Additionally, positive socialization causes a release of oxytocin in the brain. This is a natural stress reliever.
Laugh
Laughter truly is the best medicine. It relaxes the tension in your muscles and provides more oxygen to your body. Whether you watch a funny movie or tell jokes to friends, finding a way to laugh it off can not only reduce your stress but improve your overall health.
Cuddle
Physical intimacy is an amazing stress reliever. This goes for cuddling, hugging, kissing, and sex. The release of oxytocin and the reduction in cortisol that result from physical intimacy can help lower your heart rate and your blood pressure. If your spouse is also stressed, this can be a great way to help each other relax and bring you closer together.
Live Happier And You’ll Live Healthier
At Matrix Age Management, we believe that there is a better way to live a fuller, happier, healthier life. Contact us today to find out more about our programs designed to help you be your absolute best.
