In this competitive world, we are busy trying to prove our calibre to society, working day and night to achieve our goals. But amidst all this chaos, we have forgotten to take care of ourselves. There has been an increase in the number of ailments arising due to lifestyle stress. Some levels of stress may be good as it encourages and motivates to move ahead in life.

However, when it becomes an everyday aspect of life, it becomes a problem. 

The current lifestyle stress coping has led people to depression and anxiety. Not just mental exhaustion, but our hectic and erratic lifestyle is leading us to long-term lifestyle disorders such as obesity, heart diseases, stroke, and other life-threatening diseases.

Most people, right from children to adults, are experiencing stress in their day-to-day life. Some of the reasons for stress in children include bullying, peer pressure, family issues, etc. Whereas in adults, it’s mainly because of an unhealthy work environment, financial problems, uncertainty in relationships, etc.

Stress has resulted in many health issues such as weight gain, weight loss, irritable bowel syndrome, acidity, migraines, etc. Research studies have also proven that stress can alleviate blood glucose levels and triglyceride levels, the most common lifestyle risk factors for heart-related disorders. So, do you not agree that bringing a few lifestyle changes could help overcome stress to some extent?

So, here are a few ways that could help you with lifestyle stress management. 

Health comes first 

The most effective ways to reduce stress is by simply focusing on your health. Eating nutritious food and having a proper sleep could help you overcome stress. Eating right promotes serotonin secretion, which is quoted as the “happy hormone” and helps you cut down the stress hormones, namely adrenaline and cortisol. Some foods that act as stress relievers are nuts, avocado, salmon, dark chocolates, and oats. Many studies have also proven that having a fixed sleep routine could help you concentrate more on your work, improves your mood, and enables you to cope with stress. It is recommended to have at least 7 hours of sleep every day. Good sleep could help you tackle stress and improve your mental health.

Don’t be too harsh on yourselves

Accept the fact that having a bad day is normal and try to focus on solutions rather than the problems. An easy way is to take a little “me time”. People always forget to take some time for themselves. It is vital to understand that caring for oneself could help you feel more recharged. Engage yourself in some activities other than work, which could be either meditation, yoga, exercise, or even a brisk walk. Always take some time off to enjoy the things that make you happy.

Focus on your strength

Avoid addressing unnecessary issues in your life. Understand your limits and strengths and work accordingly. Say no to people whenever required. Eliminate negative thoughts and focus only on the good things. If you cannot avoid something, then try to alter it. Make a to-do list and always make some time for yourself. Try to bring changes in your thinking, accept your mistakes, show gratitude, and the most important thing is to accept yourselves.

Music therapy

As tough as one might think, overcoming stress doesn’t require bringing tremendous changes in one’s life. Yes, you have heard it right, listening to soothing music could help you relax faster. Sometimes listening to good music could also create magic. It increases dopamine production, one of the hormones that make you feel calm and relaxed. It improves memory, concentration, reduces pain and chemicals triggering stress.

Nature break

Nature is truly a solution to several of our problems. Indeed, everyone must have experienced a feeling of happiness on visiting a hilly mountain or serene blue ocean or when the cool wind strikes your face or little bird chirps outside the window. Evidence suggests that immersing ourselves in nature could alleviate mood and manage stress. Plant more trees, get some fresh air, go for a walk or a ride; these little things can have a long-lasting effect on your mental health. Spending some time in nature could make you feel strong mentally and emotionally. It also acts as a preventive tool against high blood pressure, heart-related disorders, muscle strain, etc.

Getting connected to friends and family

Spend some time with your loved ones. Today, we are more connected to technology than to our loved ones, it is important to know that people are there for us. Talk to them, share your worries, and get them out of your system. Communicating with friends and family members will help you move away from negative thoughts and make you focus on your strengths rather than weaknesses.

FAQ’S

1.  What are the adverse effects of stress on our health?

Several of our health problems are because of the release of stress hormones. Stress indirectly affects our immune system and makes it easily vulnerable. Many health issues tend to worsen due to stress. Stress has also shown a negative impact on neurotransmitters, sex hormones, and other metabolic hormones.

2.  Can stress affect our brain and its functions?

Yes, it has a long-lasting effect on the brain. Stress can lead to structural changes in the brain and also kills brain cells. Stress can even shrink the brain areas that are concerned with metabolism, memory, and emotions. Stress could also be an underlying reason for many neurological conditions.

3.  When should I visit a neurologist?

You can consult a neurologist when you experience frequent headaches, tremors, memory loss, pain, and numbness.

4.  Can stress cause neurological issues, and what are the symptoms?

Yes, it can lead to neurological issues if not addressed on time. Neurological symptoms only arise when someone is undergoing chronic stress. Some symptoms include heart palpitations, low energy, insomnia, weak muscles, high blood pressure, profuse sweating, and nervousness.

5.  How can you treat chronic stress?

The most common way to treat chronic stress is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Some doctors also provide medications that could reduce the symptoms associated with chronic stress.

For example, doctors could prescribe medications for insomnia or high blood pressure.