National Stress Day: 7 proven ways to beat stress all year round
Stress seems to be something so many of us live with on a daily basis with the increasing demands of modern life. When we are stressed, cortisol (a stress hormone) is released from the adrenal glands. Whilst back in the day this helped us survive in “fight or flight “mode, increasing and prolonged high cortisol levels can have a detrimental effect on our health.
From those which may seem more obvious like weight gain and tiredness to impaired brain function, being more prone to infections and increased risk of high blood pressure.
Here’s our top tips on how to manage stress naturally-see which ones take your fancy. Mix it up depending on what works for you at different times. And if you find ways some of these tips in to your daily routine we are pretty convinced you will see the benefits.
1. Have fun
I can’t lie, this is my absolute favourite and something so many of us forget to do. I remember saying to my husband when we escaped for a trip to the secret cinema… “this is SO much fun! We need to have more fun”.
Dance, sing, laugh. Do all three at the same time! Remember what it was like to be a child (the fun bits!) and act like one for a while (no tantrums please!)
Return to a hobby you used to enjoy when time allows. Or better still make it a firm commitment each week in your diary, a slice of time just for you.
2. Sleep
For those who know me, they know that I NEED my sleep and struggle when its cut short. Don’t underestimate the power of sleep. The scientific evidence that supports the benefits of sleep are numerous. Such as
-reducing stress
-improving memory
-encourages healthy weight through avoiding cravings
-helps reduce inflammation
Here's a few tips for getting a good night's sleep in our recent blog.
3. Exercise
So many yogi’s advocate daily practice to get the body moving and help declutter the mind - even if you can only spare 15 minutes a day. If yoga isn’t your thing, find what suits you- an outdoor run, a gym class or a swim perhaps. A study shows that people that exercise more regularly are less likely to experience symptoms of anxiety than those who don’t exercise at all.
When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, a chemical that helps to lower stress hormones and brighten up your mood. Pushing yourself to go for that gym class can be hard, but will leave you with a sense of achievement that will last all day.
4. Caffeine
We all love a good cup of tea or coffee, however, it may come as no surprise that it has been scientifically proven that a high dosage of caffeine, found in tea, coffee and energy drinks, can increase feelings of anxiety. Although healthy in moderation, too much caffeine can leave you feeling jittery and on edge.
We’ve recently discovered Peace by Pukka Teas which includes our favourite ashwagandha root
Feel you need the energy boost that caffeine gives you? Make the switch to our recharge focus capsules , a caffeine free energy boost that helps power you through the day.
5. Take a Breath
Perhaps one of the most overlooked ways to combat feelings of stress is to just simply stop and take a breath.
When your body is in ‘flight or fight mode’ feelings of stress are increased. This is due to the release of stress hormones, causing shortness of breath and an increase in heart rate.
Practising deep breathing exercises can help you quickly combat feelings of stress and anxiety; simply focus your awareness on your breath.
Why not give it a go now, take three slow, deep breaths. Inhale for a count of six, hold for a count of two and exhale for a count of eight. Feel any different?
6. Surrounding yourself with friends and family
Taking time out of your busy schedule to spend time with loved ones is important and often overlooked when feeling stressed.
A study shows that for women especially, spending time with friends and family helps to release Oxytocin, a natural stress reliever. Laughter has also been proven to help reduce stress by relieving tension- so get together with friends, relax and have a laugh.
7. Supplements
life armour is born out of passion to help ease the stresses and strains of modern life.
Our 100% natural formulations harness the power of adaptogens and are backed by scientific evidence. Both our super me and recharge focus capsules contain Ashwagandha KSM-66 which has clinical evidence in the reduction of stress and anxiety as well as a host of other benefits. life armour is a great solution to nourish from within to help you feel your best.
super me has been specifically formulated with a blend of four adaptogenic herbs to help you unwind and become more resilient to daily stressors of modern living.
Balance. Whether it’s work-life, keeping up with friends, or trying to hold tree pose for 10 seconds, it’s not easy to achieve. drops of balance has been created to help you unwind in moments of tension, helping you glide through the afternoon with ease. And breath.....
“I really loved this product - it delivers instant calm in a bottle”, Charlotte.
drops of slumber has been created to help ease your mind for a restful night, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalised the next morning, without any lingering drowsiness.
Don’t ruin your day before it starts, melt into bed and let drops of slumber do the rest.
“A beautiful ritual that sets the tone for a restful sleep”, Elaine.