Annie's 6 Tips to Beat Stress

1) Unplug. Every day we receive so much external stimuli through text, email, phone calls, apps, and news. This much information coming in can cause a chaotic feeling in our bodies and minds. It is a good idea to give yourself an hour or two to unplug from this information overload and turn your attention inward to focus on the present moment in your day. (1) 2) Do something you love. Life is busy and it is very easy to get sucked into its many obligations without leaving any time for yourself. It’s very important to carve out some time to do the things you love. This is and essential part of reconnecting with your bliss and the recharging your batteries. (2) 3) Eat whole foods. Processed junky foods cause inflammation in the body which contributes to and exacerbates stress. Not to mention, you won’t feel energized or good about your appearance. Take time to plan your meals and ensure you are putting quality fuel into your body so you are equipped to handle the challenges life throws your way. Also, cooking is very therapeutic for some people so you may discover a new activity you love which is also very beneficial is managing stress. (3) 4) Move your body. Exercise helps release stress hormones so you are left feeling calm and collected afterwards. This doesn’t have to be anything major. A 30 minute walk or a gentle yoga class will do the trick. (4) 5) Listen to music. Music has been scientifically proven to have a beneficial effect on our physiological functions. It can slow the pulse rate, lower the blood pressure, and reduce the level of stress hormones. It has even been shown to relieve depression and increase self-esteem. (5) 6) Have a good laugh. Laughter is the best medicine! Evidence has come to light that proves that laughter can improve our health. Stress hormones are reduced, we experience a reduction in blood pressure, cholesterol is reduced, and our immune system is given a boost. (6) Try these 6 tips to beat stress and experience the benefits! Suja Juice SOURCES: 1. Wayne, Teddy. "The 7-Day Digital Diet." The New York Times. The New York Times, 8 Feb. 2014. Web. http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/09/fashion/digital-detox-email-smartphone-social-media.html?_r=0 2. Andersen, Erika. "7 Things To Do If You're Feeling Overwhelmed." Forbes. Forbes Magazine, 29 May 2014. Web. http://www.forbes.com/sites/erikaandersen/2014/05/29/7-things-to-do-if-youre-feeling-overwhelmed 3. "9 Foods That Cause Inflammation and 9 Ways to Fight It - Kimberly Snyder." Kimberly Snyder 9 Foods That Cause Inflammation and 9 Ways to Fight It Comments. Kimberly Snyder Inc., 22 Sept. 2012. Web. http://kimberlysnyder.com/blog/2012/09/22/9-foods-that-cause-inflammation-and-9-that-fight-it 4. Myers, Wyatt. "8 Ways to Stay Active All Day." EverydayHealth.com. 2015. http://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness-pictures/ways-to-stay-active-all-day.aspx 5. Collingwood, Jane. "The Power of Music To Reduce Stress." Psych Central. Collingwood, J. (2013)., 4 Apr. 2013. Web. http://psychcentral.com/lib/the-power-of-music-to-reduce-stress 6. McGhee, Paul. "Humor and Health Paul E. McGhee, PhD." Humor and Health, Paul E. McGhee, Humor Therapy, Laughter Therapy, Laughter, Humour, Humour Therapy. Holisticonline.com, 6 Apr. 2007. Web. http://www.holistic-online.com/humor_therapy/humor_mcghee_article.htm