It seems like every month there is a new study coming out telling us how bad stress is for our health. And there is no denying that it is. Stress can not only weaken your immune system, but it can literally shave years off your life.
This is because when stress goes high so does cortisol, a pro-aging hormone. The imbalance created by stress affects insulin, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, and thyroid hormone production. If you're struggling with imbalances with any of these hormones then you must work on stress starting today!
But you are not at the mercy of stress. While it is true that stress is impossible to avoid, you do have a choice in how you respond. Your response to stress determines its effect on your health.
Try implementing these practices as a way to lower your body's response to stress.
Reduce Your Stress Today for Better Hormones
Breathe for Better Hormones.
Yes, it really does work. Taking long deep breaths helps stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, the “rest & digest” part of the nervous system. When you feel yourself becoming stressed, stop and take 10 long, deep breaths.
Meditating daily can bring numerous health benefits, including lowering blood pressure.
Go to Your Happy Place.
Picture a time or a place that brings feelings of happiness. Take a moment to really feel that happiness and explore every sensation you've experienced there. What were the smells you remember? Was it warm or was there a light breeze? Really enjoy this place in your imagination and allow yourself to travel there the next time you find yourself feeling stressed. It can help you relax and bring perspective to the situation.
Meditate for Better Hormones.
You do not need to practice yoga or even have a mat. Just close your eyes for 5-10 minutes daily and focus on your breath. Feel yourself inhaling and exhaling completely. Relax in your chair and let yourself spend a few minutes away from whatever is bringing you stress.
Be Present.
Take a moment to look around you and without judgement, take it all in. This is the practice of mindfulness. Being present in moment can help decrease anxiety, stress and depression. Try to spend at least 5 minutes a day just observing the life that surrounds you.
Move Your Body.
Even if it is a walk around the office. Movement will allow you to release tension from the body, increase oxygen to your brain and counter what that nasty stress hormone, cortisol, is doing to your body.
Be Grateful.
Bring your life into perspective and recognize all that you have to be grateful for. You can start a gratitude journal and pull it out when life gets tough or you can simply reflect quietly to yourself. When you feel the tension build, take just a moment to pause and reflect on all you have to be grateful for.
Mindfulness can decrease anxiety and depression.
KEEPING IT REAL, WHILE KEEPING YOU EDUCATED
Featuring a 28 day plan to take back your cycle and dozens of charts, checklists, and diagrams to help along the way.
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