Stress happens to the best of us. As the body’s natural defense mechanism, stress actually keeps us alive, igniting the fight or flight response and helping us perform better at work. Even though stress is a daily occurrence for us, it’s important to keep it in check. Excessive stress can lead to a number of health problems, from heart disease and obesity to depression and anxiety. Managing these chronic conditions allows you to live a healthier, longer life well into your golden years.
Hampton Family Practice offers several tips that can help you manage your stress effectively to stay healthy.
Fortunately, there are a number of things that you can do to lower your stress levels. In honor of Stress Awareness Month this April, we will discuss how to manage and reduce stress from a physical, mental and social standpoint.
- Get regular exercise. Physical activity plays a key role in reducing and preventing the effects of stress. Exercise is a great stress buster!
- Improve your diet. Stress and diet are closely linked. Well-nourished bodies are better prepared to cope with stress, so be mindful of what you eat.
- Focus on the positive. When you are feeling stress, take a moment to think of all the things you appreciate in life, including your own positive qualities and gifts. This simple strategy can help you keep things in perspective.
- Create a support network. Friends are important to share both good and bad times with. Talking with someone about your feelings and spending time with friends can be helpful when feeling stressed.
Beyond being aware of stress this month, it’s important to take one step further and make a plan to react better to it. Choosing to proactively manage your stress and your reaction to it is beneficial to your physical and mental health.
If you need more tips on managing your stress or would like additional resources, Hampton Family Practice is happy to help! Contact us for an appointment and let one of our outstanding providers work with you to create a wellness plan that fits your lifestyle.