During my February visit to the MLK Health Center, here in Shreveport, I discussed the importance of stress management in connection with our overall health.
All kinds of stress causes dis-ease in the body. Chronic stress and anxiety can reduce immunity, cause inflammation, worsen existing conditions or create new ones. Stress hormones should move in cycles…the fight or flight response is a natural defense designed to protect us, but with the ongoing stress most of us are under…we just keep fighting.
These stress hormones divert energy away from bodily functions such as digestion, and general internal healing. The fight or flight response takes our internal energy and brings it to our extremities so we can defend ourselves against whatever threat is being detected. Being on guard 24/7 is draining!
One example of the chain reaction from stress affecting something like tummy upset from stress, is that it clouds our thinking because all of our attention is focused on our stomach distress. I know I become short on patience when my belly gripes!
The constant stream of info we take in on a daily basis…from TV to our phones, the internet, advertising, creates stress alone with all the non stop stimulation. Add in our every day worries and it’s a wonder we ever find a moment’s peace.
We can help ourselves along with our lifestyle choices.
Our diets can cause stress as well. Some foods that increase stress include alcohol, caffeine and sugar. Calming foods include lean proteins, whole foods, oatmeal, yogurt, complex carbohydrates, almonds, raisins, and sunflower seeds. Eating warming, comforting foods when stressed can also be helpful.
Some herbs to try are: chamomile, lavender, lemon balm, oat straw, red clover. Adding a b complex and or magnesium supplement can also have a calming effect. Aroma therapy with lavender, chamomile and peppermint are also a positive addition to your routine.
Last but not least, we can add the following activities and techniques to our daily lives in order to relieve stress and anxiety: Yoga, deep breathing, mindfulness, living in the present, journal, or a slow hobby such as knitting.
This handout may be of help with keeping a positive mindset in order to reduce stress: Make Space for a Positive Mindset.
I also recently discovered Yoga with Adriene on Youtube. She even has some yoga sequences specifically designed to help with stress and anxiety.
For more info, you can check out this handy list of 10 Health Problems Related to Stress That You Can Fix.