5 Easy Ways to Hit Pause and Lower Stress

Stress Is No Joke

Feeling stressed lately? How's your allostatic load? If you're unfamiliar with that term, it refers to the effort needed from your body to respond to stressors and then restore internal balance.

Why does it matter? Chronic stress impacts our health more than most people realize. When cortisol (the stress hormone) is released, it causes significant changes in our internal systems, affecting everything from blood sugar regulation to bone density. Chronic stress can also negatively impact cardiovascular health, reproductive health, immunity, digestive function, and much more.

So, What's the Good News?

The good news is there are strategies you can implement to reduce your allostatic load and improve both your physical and mental health. Here are a few effective ideas:

1. Get Social

   
   

   Spending time with friends, family, or community in times of personal need can significantly reduce stress and improve your overall outlook. Bonus points for hugs and physical affection - they're proven stress relievers!

2. Eat Whole Foods

   
   

   Fueling your body with nutrient-dense whole foods gives it the building blocks it needs to recover from stress and stay strong in the face of future stressors.

   
   

3. Get Plenty of Sleep

   
   

   Studies show that sleeping less than five hours a night can increase perceived stress. Getting a good night's sleep, on the other hand, helps regulate cortisol levels and can lower stress the following day.

4. Move Your Body Daily

   
   

   Regular physical activity not only builds resilience to stress but also helps to reduce psychological responses to stress. Plus, exercise releases endorphins -those feel-good hormones that help improve mood.

5. Get Outside

   
   

   Sunlight exposure, especially in the morning, helps regulate your circadian rhythms and improves sleep quality. Spending time in green spaces can also lower cortisol levels and significantly reduce stress.

Taking steps to manage stress can have a profound effect on your overall well-being. Incorporating these simple strategies into your routine can help reduce the strain chronic stress puts on your body and mind. If you're looking for more personalized tips on how to incorporate stress-reducing habits into your life, feel free to reach out—I’d love to support you on your journey to better health!