Personal Care March 27, 2020
It's called self-care.
Stress isn’t uncommon. It’s something we all feel at one point in our lives. We know how that feels, which is why we’ve come up with different ways to reduce stress.
That’s why it’s important to put yourself first and never forget to self-care! For those of you feeling like life has you backed up into a corner, here are a few tips.
I mean, Elle Woods said it the best in, “Legally Blonde.” Exercise does help to raise the levels of the brain’s, “happy” chemicals.
If you can, it would be ideal to go outside for a light jog or even just a walk around the block. This way you can also get your daily dose of Vitamin D. A lack of the sun’s natural vitamin has shown in studies to lead to depression and anxiety.
So whether you go pump iron at the gym or soak up the sun walking around the neighborhood, get yourself moving!
Do more of what makes you happy!
Take some time to ask yourself, “When do I feel the happiest?” Once you have that answer, make sure you set aside time in your schedule to do it. It could be anything from baking, painting, reading or playing your favorite sport, Find a hobby that has a positive impact on your life, other than laying in bed and watching Netflix all day and go HAM.
Okay, so we know this one can be a little difficult, but just hear us out. According to Very Well Mind, coffee and stress both raise the level of Cortisol – aka the “stress hormone,” in the body. When the Cortisol levels in your body keep getting higher, there is eventually negative effects on your health.
We’re not saying to never drink caffeine ever again. Maybe just cut back on the five cups you are having a day.
This one might be a little surprising, but it’s true. As Sheenie Ambardar told WebMD, “touching and hugging will release your body’s natural ‘feel-good’ hormone. Sexual arousal releases a brain chemical that revs up your brain’s pleasure and reward system.”
Ambardar also says that sex and intimacy will make your life happier by boosting your self-esteem.
Sex can also count as an exercise, so this one hits two checkboxes for all you over-achievers out there.
We all do it. Sometimes it’s unavoidable. But like we said before, one of the major ways to reduce stress is by preventing it. How many times have you left something for the last minute? And how many times you stressed out about not having enough time to complete it? If you’re currently thinking, “been there, done that,” then maybe it’s time to make a change.
The easiest way to start is by just doing it. Lists are also your best friend. Make a list of everything you need to get done that day and do it! Trust me, you will feel so much more accomplished and stress-free as a result.
Next time you’re feeling like you can’t handle it all anymore, just remember you’re not alone.
Self-care is always in style!
