How Stress Can Be Affecting Your Health

By: Sherry Granader

Stress affects our life and health in more ways than you may realize and it may be coming from unexpected sources. Even with the convenience of computers, cell phones, E:mails, blackberry's and Coffee Shops on every corner, it can seem like we are trapped every minute of the day. There are some routines you can adopt that can help lessen the load every day.

1. Take Mini-Vacations every single day. This can mean getting up and going for a short walk, taking the time to stretch, or doing some deep breathing exercises throughout your day. It is amazing how much better you will feel plus you will be helping yourself lower blood pressure and reduce stress in the body.

2. Drink Green Tea - when you are under stress, your adrenal glands release stress hormones, in particular, cortisol. Cortisol stimulates the immune system which is fine if the stress is short term like your body being invaded by a virus. In this case, cortisol is doing it's job and will diminish once the stress goes away. If you are under chronic stress, the immune system gets repressed because your body stops responding to the elevated cortisol levels, creating cortisol resistance. Green tea contains theanine which is an amino acid known for its calming effects.

3. Get enough Vitamin C - which works on the adrenal system and can help lower cortisol levels. You can take a supplement form or eat a piece of your favorite fruit.

4. Get enough sleep - it is the most important thing you can do to keep your cortisol levels under control. Try taking calcium and magnesium before bed or have a couple slices of turkey breast before bed.

5. Observe the Sabbath every week- this can be any day of the week when you can take a day to rest, read, take a walk, meditate and find your inner peace.

6. Give yourself permission to relax - some people get stressed out when they are doing nothing but it is the smartest thing you can do for yourself that can re-energize your soul.

Stress can damage hormones, nerves, and the immune system and if you are having trouble dealing with your schedule, family obligations and work, then it might be time to shift some of the workload or find an alternate schedule.

When it is time for a real vacation - take it and leave the blackberry and computer at home. Allow yourself time to read your favorite magazines or mystery novel. Don't feel like you have to find the nearest fitness center to drop a dress in 2 weeks by taking the Advanced Kickboxing class. If you enjoy working out, do so on your own time and schedule but don't feel like you have to maintain your same workout schedule.

Give yourself permission to relax and enjoy yourself. It is okay to goof-off. Even when you are back into your hectic schedule again, you can bring a feeling of peace and joy with you and fond memories of your vacation.

Article Source: http://www.newarticledaily.com

Sherry L. Granader, ACE, AFAA, NETA, ACSM, BBU, is a Nutrition Consultant, National Speaker and Spokesperson, Author and Writer. She teaches Yoga, Pilates and Group Exercise classes. Download her FREE "Eat Right, Feel Good, Lose Weight, Have Fun" Cookbook at http:// www.sgtotalhealth.com

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