Stress is our body responding to change. Because our lives involve constant change there is no way of avoiding stress. Because we are unable to eliminate all stress from our lives, we need to effectively manage what we can. Stress management is taking control of your lifestyle, thoughts, and emotions, so you can be happier, healthier, and more productive. Well-nourished bodies are better prepared to cope with stress.
1. Get plenty of sleep
Good quality sleep is essential for your health and wellbeing. Sleep is as important to our health as eating, drinking and breathing. It allows our bodies to repair themselves. Poor sleep is linked to physical problems such as a weakened immune system and mental health problems. The National Sleep Foundation recommends 7–9 hours of sleep a night for adults up to the age of 65, and 7–8 hours for those over 65. Some people naturally sleep slightly more or slightly less than these recommended hours.
2. Eat well
What we eat affects how we feel. If you’ve ever watched how quickly sugar can have an effect on the mood of small children (and adults too) or if you’ve ever felt dull and tired after a heavy lunch of carbs you’ll have seen and felt the effects that foods we choose to eat can have. But it’s not just sugar and heavy carbs. All kinds of foods can also have short-term as well as longlasting effects on your mental health. Your body needs a mix of nutrients, vitamins and minerals to function well, so making sure you’re eating a good diet is truly vital for mental health.
A Healthy Diet Includes:
• A variety of fresh vegetables and fruits A good source of protein such as Alpha Lipid™ Ultra Diet™ 2 Protein sources provide amino acids, which the body converts into the mood-lifting neurotransmitters, such as serotonin FibreMax™ Helps to keep us full and keep the bowel environment healthy by stimulating the good bacteria in the gut to produce short-chain fatty acids which decrease stress Alpha Lipid™ Containing 1 billion probiotics per dose, probiotics reduces the effects of stress by providing healthy gut microbiome which directly affects your brain
• Regular water consumption 6 - 8 glasses per day
Try To Limit:
• How much caffeine you drink
• How much sugar is in your diet
• How much refined carbohydrates you consume
3. Drink sensibly
Many people who overindulge in drinking alcohol (or other substances) commonly do it to change their mood. Although it may numb or overcome a difficult feeling for a while, the effects are short-lived. Alcohol doesn’t deal with the causes of difficult feelings or solve our problems. It makes them worse. There are much healthier ways of dealing with difficult feelings including the other ones listed in this post. Occasional drinking in moderation is quite healthy and enjoyable for most people. As a useful guide to drinking in moderation, keep in mind that the daily alcohol limit recommended is no more than two standard drinks per day.
4. Activity and exercise
Your body releases stress-relieving and moodboosting endorphins before and after you work out, which is why exercise is a powerful antidote to stress, anxiety, and depression. Look for small ways to add activity to your day, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or going on a short walk. To get the most benefit, aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, and try to do it outdoors. Exposure to sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, which increases your level of serotonin in the brain. Plus, time in nature is a proven stress reducer
5. Connect with others and be sociable
We, humans, are social animals. We crave to feel connected and supported and to feel valued by others. Studies have shown that social connection is a vital key to good mental health. Good social connection has even been linked to having a longer life. Spending quality time with friends or family, talking to someone about how we are feeling or finding ways to help other people can all help stop you from feeling lonely and improve your mental health and wellbeing. This can be online, by phone or video chat. Make time to connect.
Your emotional and mental wellbeing is important. It is normal to feel anxious or stressed in this climate, try these 5 tips and include the New Image™ International products, and see how you feel.