The Natural Way
Don't stress about being stressed
It's that time of year again when summer is over and the anticipation of getting back into the routine begins. For some, this is an especially stressful time of year, and the anxiety may be already starting to peak. There are many ways you can take care of your health and reduce stress levels to make the transition easier.
The first step to reducing stress on your body is to eat a healthy diet by limiting the amount of refined carbohydrates, sugar, alcohol, and caffeine as these foods will lower your immune system and increase your susceptibility of getting sick. Avoiding saturated fats including fried foods, red meat and junk food will help prevent high blood pressure and other forms of heart disease, which are conditions linked to stress. Food allergies should also be diagnosed and eliminated from the diet as they add further stress to the body. Wheat and dairy products tend to be the most frequent foods people are allergic to as they are consumed on a daily basis. Over time symptoms may develop such as chronic pain, digestive disorders, headaches, fatigue and weight gain. By determining foods sensitive to, then eliminating them from the diet will lessen the stress response on the body.
There are many environmental factors that also cause stress to the body including various chemicals, perfumes/colognes, and other scented substances (candles, air fresheners, body lotions). Many people are affected by strong odours and chemicals as they can trigger Migrainee headaches, asthma and other conditions to occur. It is wise to have your work environment scent free as it will reduce illness, improve work performance and alleviate stress. One of the major impacts stress has on health is that it depletes the adrenal glands, which are the organs responsible for 'fight or flight'. When a stressful situation occurs, the adrenal glands respond by releasing adrenaline and other stress related hormones, which keep the body alert and functioning during the time of stress. If you drink coffee to 'keep you going' it will further drain the adrenal glands without replenishing them and you will suffer from adrenal depletion whereby you are extremely fatigued/exhausted, and experience anxiety, depression, weight fluctuations and lowered tolerance to infections.
During times of stress it is important to support the adrenal glands with nutritional supplements of Vitamin C, B complex (with additional B5 & B6), zinc and magnesium. Since the body excretes vitamin C in the urine during times of stress, supplementation may be required in addition to consuming more fresh fruits and vegetables. Herbal medicines such as licorice root and ginseng (Panax or Siberian) are very beneficial at enhancing adrenal functioning and increasing resistance to stress. They are classified as 'adrenal tonics' as they strengthen the tone and function of the adrenal gland. As a result, they improve energy, mood, physical and mental performance, as well as enable the body to respond to stress without negative consequences.
In addition to supplementing the body with vitamins and herbs, it is also very important to address the emotional component related to stress. Take time out in the day for yourself and engage in activities you enjoy. Calm your mind with various meditative techniques, yoga, and breathing exercises. Acupuncture and Reiki are also therapeutic in calming the mind and balancing the body. Exercise and physical activity will not only keep you fit but also reduce stress levels and improve your health!
