National Wellness Month 2023

August is National Wellness Month, and it presents the perfect opportunity to learn effective stress management techniques.

In today’s fast-paced world, various factors such as traffic, work or home responsibilities, financial concerns, social pressures, and exposure to technology’s EMFs contribute to daily stress. These stressors leave individuals feeling exhausted, leaving little time to focus on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and relaxation.

While stress can be a beneficial reaction to threats, chronic or frequent stress can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. Digestive issues, muscle pain, hormonal imbalances, heart disease, high blood pressure, fatigue, anxiety, and depression are some of the negative consequences of prolonged stress.

The fight-or-flight response, also known as the stress response, is triggered when we perceive a situation as stressful or frightening. This response primes the body for either fighting or fleeing to deal with perceived threats. However, many people find themselves stuck in this fight-or-flight mode for extended periods, which can be harmful.

The key is to manage and reduce stress rather than trying to eliminate it entirely. Here are some helpful ways to do so:

1. Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce stress levels by lowering cortisol and adrenaline, the body’s stress hormones. Yoga, interval training, walking, jogging, dancing, or any form of exercise you enjoy can have a positive impact on stress management.
2. Hydration: Reducing caffeine intake is essential for managing stress. While caffeine can have some benefits, excessive consumption can lead to sleep disturbances, anxiety, headaches, and dehydration. Staying hydrated by drinking more water is a simple yet effective way to feel less stressed and respond better to challenging situations.
3. Breathwork: Paying attention to your breath can significantly improve how you feel and react to stressful situations. Deep, intentional breaths signal to the brain and body that you are safe, leading to a sense of calm and ease. The box breath technique, inhaling and exhaling for four counts, can be a helpful practice.
4. Meditation: Regular meditation practices can calm the mind and direct attention to the present moment. It has been shown to lower cortisol levels and decrease inflammation in the body. Through meditation, individuals can gain a new perspective on stressful situations and develop skills to better manage stressors.

As August draws to a close and September approaches, it’s an opportune time to embrace stress management techniques. By incorporating these tips into your daily life, you can better prepare yourself for the rest of the year.

Wishing you a journey of improved well-being and stress-free living,

Chloe Keane

BSc Psychology