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Written by Satinder Dhillon-Dougher CNP
Stress can start in your early childhood. In a study done over 45 years in Great Britian of nearly 7000 children ages 7, 11, 16, 23, 33 and then 42 showed that stress at a young age can increase your cardiometabolic risk for high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease.
Stress impacts every individual on a daily basis. It starts from the moment we wake up until the time we go to bed. And, often, it is the thing that keeps us from falling asleep. It has been noted in multiple publications that stress can cause a high blood pressure and even a heart attack. Stress can come from internal or external sources. Internal sources include the self-pressure we put on ourselves to perform-such as being a perfect partner/spouse, parent, adult child to our aging parents. External stress sources include things like performing to certain standard and expectations. Any way you look at it, stress is everywhere. It can rob you of the simple joys around you.
So, what can you do to de-stress?
Get some sleep. Lack of REM sleep can cause more stress. Sleep is needed for recovery from stress.
Laughter can help reduce cortisol and epinephrine which is triggered during stress.
Deep breathing. Stop and take some deep breaths, let down your shoulders, fill your lungs with fresh air.
Meditation. You can sit in silence or even try a guided meditation. Or just practice being mindful and more present.
Aromatherapy, music or art therapy.
Exercise. You can go for a walk, a run, swim, do yoga, or play pickleball or tennis.
Connect with friends or family.
Eat a healthy diet with variety and fresh fruits and vegetables.
Play with your pets -cats, dogs, horses, any furry creature that brings you joy!
Read a book, escape your life for a bit.
Taking time for yourself is good for your soul.
Talk to a counselor or therapist before things get overwhelming or worse.
Chronic stress can leave you feeling depleted. It's difficult to pour from an empty cup. If you struggle with stress and are already implementing some self care strategies you may want to have your bloodwork checked for cortisol, thyroid, and hormone levels. Here at Optimal Hormones Medical, we can come up with an individualized plan to help you feel more balanced. Please reach out to us at Optimal Hormones Medical, our contact information is listed below:
Phone: 602-595-0050
Email: admin@optimalhormones.com
Website: www.optimalhormones.com
References:
Heart Attack Patients May Use Inefficient Coping Methods for Stress - American College of Cardiology (acc.org)
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