Stress causes the body to tense which causes muscular tension. When your muscles are tense your breathing becomes shallow which decreases oxygen levels in the blood. The brain detects this and increases your heart rate, which elevates your blood pressure. Here are some easy and free ways to take charge of your stress.
Around the office and particularly with my patients I teach them a really simple breathing technique called box breathing. CLICK HERE for a video on box breathing
As a chiropractor I see the physical effects of stress in my patients daily. From desk jockeys that are stationary too long, or the physical laborers that are lifting too much and doing it incorrectly. We have a list of specific stretches you can do at your desk, but more importantly get your co-workers involved so it can become an office activity! CLICK HERE for the list of stretches
Do you struggle with stress and anxiety? Download Dr. Teralyn’s FREE guide “Top 3 Ways to Kick Anxiety Today”!
I like to tell people to MOVE. Stand up, walk around, touch your toes, do lunges down the hall. The Mayo Clinic has a health letter that explains how exercise raises your endorphins. Yes, girl yes! I love that feel good stuff! CLICK HERE for information on those exercises
Nutrition plays a HUGE roll in our stress levels. There are so many studies out there on intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting actually stabilizes blood sugar levels by regulating insulin. It increases energy and enables you to get a better nights sleep. What is absolutely fantastic about intermittent fasting is that you can do it with any diet! So, if you are vegan, paleo, keto, or green eggs and ham, intermittent fasting is wonderful! CLICK HERE for info on intermittent fasting
Last but definitely not least is SLEEP! YES, it is possible to sleep your way to less stress. Getting adequate amounts of quality sleep allows your body to rest and heal. CLICK HERE for sleep info
There are 5 simple things that will help you sleep:
- Breathe – use the box method for 2-5 minutes throughout the day and before bed
- Practice yoga, meditation, or read
- Lower the temperature in your room
- Watch what you eat and when you eat it. If you’re shoveling in the carbs before bed, the quality of your sleep will be poor
- Visualize things that bring you joy or make you happy
About Our Guest Blogger, Shelley Davis, DCThere isn’t a 12 step program just willing participants that want their power turned back on!
I’ve been adjusting for 14 years and absolutely love what I do, but I’ve studied Health and Wellness since I was 10!!! I also served in the Air Force for 6 years and loved every minute of it!
At this point in my life, my goal is create an awareness of weaknesses in our current healthcare system by working with the VA and local doctors to get some laws changed!Yours in Health,
Shelley Davis, DC