Stress is hard on our bodies. Tightness in the chest, increased heart rate, shortness of breath. These are the feelings of stress. They are not pleasant and put unneeded strain on our bodies.
Being in stressful situations will elicit these reactions and can cause discomfort. From an evolutionary standpoint this is good, we needed to know when to run away from a lion, but when we put our body into the fight or flight mode that stress causes, we increase oxidative stress on a cellular level.
What is one to do when there are limits on ways that we can alleviate stress and we can’t turn to our usual methods? We’ve compiled a few tips to help in reducing stress during difficult times. Hopefully with some small changes to your new routine, you’ll be feeling less frazzled and more relaxed.
Set Up Some Me Time
“Suuuuuurrrrrrre,” said every person who’s got people in their space 24/7.
It may be very difficult, but getting yourself some sanctuary time is going to help keep you from getting cabin fever. It’s stressful being cooped up with the same people for days on end, you’re all bound to be a little extra fussy at times.
A good way to combat this overexposure to one another is by setting aside lots of solo time for everyone in addition to group time.
Even if all you can muster is a bath in the evenings, take it! Sprinkle a few drops of calming essential oils into the bathwater and light some candles. It’s time to soak away the day and get ready for a restful night’s sleep.
Take Breaks From Stress
Experts recommend not going into a spiral with negative thinking. The stories that we tell ourselves after hearing a troubling news report can lead to repetitive and negative thoughts.
These kinds of thoughts can produce more anxiety that then feeds into the cyclical negativity.
If you do find yourself looping through negative scripts in your head, take a walk around your neighborhood and clear your mind for a small amount of time. Try to time yourself for short increments to start.
Have a goal of just one minute without negative thinking. If you can’t make it to one minute, start smaller. Slowly shift your perspective and see the results that a slight adjustment in your mindset can provide for stress reduction.
Also meditation is good for managing stress. Try diffusing some stress-relieving oils and tuning out the world temporarily to lower your cortisol levels.
When Stress Won’t Go Away
Some of us can’t hit the off switch when it comes to stress. What works for one may not be as effective for others.
Do keep in mind that it’s easier for your body to fight off disease when there is decreased oxidative stress on cells. The more relaxed you are, the more capable your body is at responding to health problems.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and are wanting to combat the negative oxidative effects of stress on your immune response, consider some of these alternatives:
