Health Habits: Stress Relief

Stress is most likely a commonality among us all.  It can lead to anxiety if not dealt with.  Believe it or not, if left unchecked it can lead to health problems such as insomnia, high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease and diabetes.  Stress can affect your moods and behaviors. If you notice that you’re having symptoms such as increased irritability, mood swings, headaches, stomach pains or upset, chest pain or fatigue, see your doctor.  This is a time in life that it would be important for early health interventions.  Your doctor can help you choose activities for stress relief based on your condition.  

If you’re having symptoms of stress act as soon as you can before developing more serious health complications.  Try stress management strategies such as the ones listed below:

Get regular physical activity: Cameron has many options to help you get moving. Check out the YMCA or Anytime Fitness, hit the hiking trails with a friend at Wallace State Park, go swimming at the community pool, head over to the park with your kids or take your dog to the dog park.

Meditate or do yoga:  Improve your balance and flexibility while sharpening your mind, relieving stress and anxiety, and strengthening your immune system.  Yoga is also known for improving heart health, digestion, sleep and asthma. 

Listen to music: Music therapy has been used for patients with cancer or other illnesses, but it can also be used to enhance anyone’s moods.  Music can help reduce pain, relieve stress and anxiety, improve respiration, lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, relax muscle tension, and improve cardiac output. 

Connect with others:  Reach out to family and friends for some emotional support.  Social contact can provide a distraction from stress or consider volunteering.  Volunteering is a great way to feel good about yourself while helping others.  Sometimes volunteering can help put things in perspective and improve outlook on life. 

Try a little horticulture: Caring for plants or a garden can act as a reminder that we are not the center of the universe. It gives us something else to focus on while expending some excess energy.  

Cameron offers a plethora of opportunities to get outside, be active and contribute to the community. It’s good for the soul, your body, and for those around you. 

Health habit for the week: Incorporate a stress relieving activity daily.