HOW TO RELIEVE STRESS AND BOOST YOUR DAY
IN A LONG-TERM FIX
Looking for a way to boost your day in a long-term fix? Modifying your diet, workout regime and lifestyle to better accommodate the endorphins in your lives might be the answer. Here is the top of nutrition, fitness and health advice when it comes to how to relieve stress in ways that go beyond skin deep. A “feel good” factor. With these easy yet effective lifestyle change ups at your fingertips, it could be easier than you think.
AFFIRMATIONS
Our thoughts drive our moods and colour our perception of experiences. If you believe the phrase, “You are what you think”, then life truly stems from your thoughts. Research shows that up to 80% of the thoughts we produce in a day are negative. Affirmations are proven methods of self-improvement, because of their ability to re-wire our brains by increasing the level of endorphins released into the body. By repeating them, you change neural pathways and synapses in your brain.
MEDITATION
The fundamental meditation principles of quiet thought, contemplation and reflection offer an antidote to stressful and hectic 21st-century living. The process of meditation stimulates the release of endorphins, thus turning off stress hormones and lowering cortisol levels associated with the fight or flight stress response. Meditation triggers the hypothalamus; stimulating the pituitary gland to release endorphins, promoting relaxation, self-healing and overall well being.
GREENSPIRATION
Leafy greens in all their varieties, (kale, spinach, broccoli, rocket) since they contain plenty of B vitamins that tend to be depleted in stress. High levels of the stress hormone cortisol actually reduce levels of serotonin. In particular, B6 supports the production and functioning of both serotonin and dopamine.
B VITAMIN BOOSTERS
Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine is an essential nutrient for the central nervous system. Vitamin B6 is needed in the body for the production of certain neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. Symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency include irritability, short attention spans, and short-term memory loss. Vitamin B6 is naturally found in brown rice, legumes, whole grains and meats.