Exercise and daily movement are essential for stress management. The production of feel-good endorphins and reduction of adrenaline and cortisol, supports the beneficial effects of exercise and stress.
Find a form of exercise that you enjoy – if you actually enjoy it, you’ll be so much more motivated! In an ideal world, aim for 3 x 1-hour exercise sessions a week, where your heart rate is elevated, and you break a sweat. But obviously do whatever works for you – everyone is different!
Aim to move your body every day – even if it’s just for a stroll around your local park or doing 20 burpees during your lunchbreak.
NOURISH
When we’re stressed, it depletes your body of many vital nutrients including B-Vitamins, Vitamin C and E and can also wreak havoc on our blood sugar levels. So even though it might be tempting to tuck into comfort food during a stressful period, try to focus on eating meals and snacks that replenish your nutrient supplies.
Load up on anti-inflammatory omega 3 foods including oily fish, flaxseed, chia seeds and enriched organic eggs – great for supporting the brain and body during times of stress.
Don’t forget to eat the rainbow – fruit and vegetables are an incredible source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants – that our body desperately needs during chronic stress.
Cover your back – a good quality supplement can make sure that any depleted nutrients are topped up, so this could be worth investing in!
LAUGH
Seriously! Laughter is a major stress buster, it does so by relieving body tension and increasing circulation. It also usually means you’re in good company and socialising with your friends & family can be a fantastic way of reducing stress and boosting happy hormones.