Wednesday, 9 October 2013

10 ways to beat stress

The instant stress buster.

1. BREATHE shallow, rapid breathing is a common stress signal and causes you to take in to much oxygen, which can lead to anxiety attacks. Counteract this with a 2 minute break. slow your breathing by closing 1 nostril and breathing and exhale with the other then repeat for 1 more minute with the other nostril.

2. POSITIVE RELAXATION imagery
This is where you go to a quiet room and shut your eyes and imagine you are in your favourite place.
Favourite colours, sounds and scents. This will help you reach a relaxed state more quickly.

3. A GOOD NIGHTS SLEEP
We all need at least 7 hours sleep a night to prevent an increase in your cortisol level. If you are well rested you are less likely to reach for a sugary snack.

4. CUT BACK on Caffeine, Nicotine and Alcohol
the first 2 are stimulants and alcohol acts as a depressant.

5. LEARN Mindfulness meditation
This combines stress reduction and meditation, and helps you stay in the here and now.

6. Make Exercise a habit
10 minutes walking is a great stress reliever.

7.Always eat BREAKFAST
This will release carbohydrates and protein to keep blood sugar levels stable.

8. Get SUPPORT
Friends, family and your local doctor can all help and are vital to reducing stress.

9. Eat the right foods
Stress calls for more antioxidants, so eat plenty of fruit,
Also include selenium-rich foods too such as brazil nuts, meat, fish and eggs.

10. Keep Hydrated
Dehydration causes and can affect concentration.
Drink 2 litres a day is recommended.

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