In the U.S., the majority of adults have been feeling overwhelmed emotionally and tired, according to a poll by the American Psychological Association. Managing stress is more important than ever and preventing chronic stress or managing it after it happens to you is important. Stress is feeling pressure from a problem or situation. It can be positive, such as a change, like a new relationship. Stress can affect you physically, mentally, or emotionally. A physical response from stress could be stomach problems, lack of sleep, high blood pressure, and headache. Feeling like you are not getting your tasks done, restlessness, feeling inconsistent moods, and feeling irritated more easily are emotional effects of stress.
Using Aromatherapy to Manage Stress
Using scent to feel better, or aromatherapy, has been used for thousands of years. Aromatic oils were used in ancient China, Egypt, India, and elsewhere for religious ceremonies and for healing the mind and the body. We know today how this treatment works. The molecules from oils go from the olfactory nerves directly to the brain and make changes to the emotional area of it, the amygdala. Body oils, body sticks, and diffusers can be used to make us feel better. Be certain to get essential oil products that are in a dark glass bottle or opaque container and are made by a company that is reputable. Lemon, grapefruit, and orange essential oils can help you feel better if you are tired from lack of sleep and want to have more energy. These are invigorating scents. Lavender can help you feel soothed if you feel moody or irritated. Clary sage and rose are aromas that reduce the effects of stress because they can reduce cortisol, the stress hormone.
Cooking Helps You Manage Stress
Cooking and baking are activities that are simple, inexpensive, and rewarding, and this can help someone experiencing stress have a feeling of control over the outcome, which helps them think less about the problem they are having. It is a nurturing experience because it stimulates your senses with touch, taste, aroma, and seeing a colorful or attractive dish. If you cook for other people you could feel nurtured by their appreciation.
Brief, creative projects like cooking and baking make people feel more enthusiastic about their other tasks by the following day, according to a study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology. Therapists recommend cooking classes to help with the emotional effects of stress.
Your Environment Can Help You Feel Emotionally Centered
Clutter can increase cortisol, a stress hormone. Keep fewer items on any shelves in your home environment and keep your items organized and easy to find. Having opened windows and fresh air in your home can help you feel calm and better at focusing. Having flowering house plants decreases stress hormones.
Use Humor to Make Your Emotions and Body Healthier
A hearty laugh can reduce stress and relax your muscles for as long as 45 minutes. A film that makes you laugh reduces stress hormones and helps your body produce antibodies that fight against infection.
Also read: Tea Can Help You with Stress Management
Nutritional Supplements and Food Reduce Stress
Magnesium Complex is a nutritional supplement that can help you get better rest and can help you feel relaxed. Magnesium is a mineral that many people do not get enough of from their diets. It helps regulate blood pressure and muscle tension. A complex may include other nutrients, such as Vitamin B6, that help the body absorb the magnesium better.
You can reduce the amount of cortisol by eating foods that reduce inflammation. Avocados, spinach, broccoli, and bananas are anti-inflammatory.
