Oasis Advanced Wellness Health Forum

[stephanie]

Dealing With Stress

Don't let stress make you sick; it could be affecting your health ? both mind and body. It's time to put the focus on yourself and make sure that some of that stress is alleviated. Here are some tips on how to decompress :

Relax. It's important to unwind. Try deep breathing, yoga, meditation, or massage therapy. Even taking time to sit down and rest, listen to music, or read a book can be relaxing.

Make time for yourself. It is crucial to take care of yourself. Think of this as an order from your doctor, so you don't feel guilty! No matter how busy you are, try to set aside at least 15 minutes each day to do something for yourself, like taking a bubble bath, going for a walk, or catching up with a friend.

Sleep. Sleeping is a great way to help both your body and mind. With enough sleep, you can tackle your problems better and lower your risk for illness. Try to get seven to nine hours of sleep every night.

Eat right. Fuel up with fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Good sources of protein are peanut butter, chicken, or tuna salad. Eat whole-grains, such as wheat breads and wheat crackers. Don't be fooled by the jolt you get from caffeine or sugar ? your energy will wear off.

Don't deal with stress in unhealthy ways. This includes drinking too much alcohol, using drugs, smoking, or overeating.