Look for ways to relax

Lifestyle Saturday 23/February/2019 21:36 PM
By: Times News Service
Look for ways to relax

Higher levels of stress can cause problems at work and home. But stress is not just hard on your mental well-being, it is hard on your body and can lead to many negative health outcomes.Stress levels can also increase significantly when economic times are tough. To help you stay calm and focused, consider these four ways to reduce stress.
Smells
Certain smells can bring back very specific and detailed memories. These could be of a person, event or place. Most often the memory also has a deeply emotional feeling that is recalled. This is because smells are processed by a specific part of the brain that stores emotional memories. Taking the time to seek out smells that bring back those happy memories can help reduce stress levels.
Salt
Stress is characterized in the human body by high levels of the hormone cortisol, referred to as the "stress hormone." Scientific research has shown, in animals and humans, that increased levels of salt consumption are effective in reducing levels of cortisol. Research from the University of Haifa, published in the science journal Appetite, confirmed the relationship between salt and stress in humans. Researchers found an inverse correlation between salt and depression/stress, especially in women. Craving salty foods may very well be a biological defense mechanism we evolved to cope with daily stress.
Pets
Animal therapy has long been used to relieve stress, improve mood and treat anxiety. Some studies have also indicated that just being around an animal can reduce blood pressure. This pet therapy has been used in hospitals and nursing homes and even with military veterans suffering from depression. And it is not limited to dogs and cats. Rabbits, guinea pigs and even horses are used. An added benefit is that having a pet encourages exercise.
Exercise
Regular exercise, even if mild, may be the best stress reducer. When you are active the body releases endorphins, which produce a feeling of well-being. Regular activity can improve your concentration as well as your sleep, which can often be negatively affected by stress.
Just going for a daily walk can help improve how you feel. And the results of exercise can also improve your self-image and confidence.-BPT