It's no longer a surprise to anyone, the majority of us are STRESSED. Now, how can we reduce our stress levels and increase our resilience?
The pandemic quickly made me realize that there are 4 ways to reduce the impact of stress on our body.
Tip #1: Recovery
Promote central nervous system recovery😴 through quality sleep ranging between 7-10 hours per night depending on individual needs. Knowing that growth hormone secretion occurs between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM, it also becomes important to go to bed relatively early. (See the article: The links between lack of sleep, increased cortisol, and weight gain)
Tip #2: Move🤸🤸♀️
Physical activity not only promotes the secretion of endorphins but also allows you to "CLEAR YOUR MIND"; something increasingly difficult as we grow older. (See the article: Combating depression, anxiety, and stress through sports)
Tip #3: Socialize💃👯
The pandemic has shown us the devastating effects of isolation on our mental health. Socializing allows us to communicate our fears and worries, to laugh and learn, but above all to undo certain beliefs/perceptions we have about reality. Living in a community also helps lighten our tasks, to ask for and receive help, and thus ease our daily routine.
Tip #4: Eat well🥑
A nutrient-rich diet reduces the risks of anxiety. Food is above all our fuel, and quality matters. Before even looking at quantity, we should rather look at the quality of the foods we consume. Certain biochemical blockages can affect our behavior and promote certain symptoms of anxiety. For example, poor blood sugar management can lead to restlessness or nervousness. (See the article: The link between food and emotions)
PS. Animal-assisted therapy would be my 5th recommendation❤️
Article written by Émilie Riendeau
Naturopath, B. Sc, ND, K.In
Émilie Riendeau can be reached on her social networks: Instagram or by email at: info@emilieriendeau.com