Handling Stress: Doing It Right

We all experience stress every day. A healthy stress level keeps us motivated to accomplish our tasks. However, having too much of it can have a negative impact and disrupt how we function. Once we go over our stress limits, we tend to find quick fixes and sometimes do more harm than good. The next time you are tempted by unhealthy stress remedies, STOP. Think for a moment and consider healthier alternatives.

Quick fix one: Binge eating. A common response to excessive stress is making unhealthy food choices. Grabbing a box of donuts or ordering pizza are common reactions after a terrible day. While this may help us feel better initially, bad food choices can eventually cause our bodies to react negatively. In addition, this habit can contribute to the stress we already have.

>>Healthy alternative: Have a massage. A good massage can lower stress levels by promoting positive biochemical and physiological reactions. It reduces muscle tension, improves blood flow, and can give that general feeling of well-being, preparing us to handle more stress. In addition, a satisfying massage promotes the release of hormones that help strengthen the immune system.

Quick fix two:  Drink alcohol. We may think that alcohol relaxes us after a hard day’s work. But the reality is, that alcoholic drinks not only keep us from getting relaxed, it add more stress by depriving us of a good night’s sleep and giving us nasty hangovers; drowning our problems with alcohol will only make things much worse.

>>Healthy alternative: Get enough sleep. Good sleep has many benefits. It restores our energy, improves brain function, keeps us alert, and gives us that boost to help us deal with stress.

Quick fix three:  Watch TV. The average American watches about 5 hours of television every day. It may be tempting for most of us to sit on the couch and catch up with our favorite shows, but this will leave us feeling weak and stuporous afterward. Studies have shown that watching too much television can affect the brain’s function and can be habit-forming.

>>Healthy alternative: Exercise. Instead of reaching for the remote, put on your workout gear and get moving. Even simple activities like walking or a quick yoga session can boost your mood and energy levels. Regular exercise not only relieves stress but also promotes long-term health, and when combined with reliable health insurance coverage, you’re fully equipped to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

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