Over one-third of adults worldwide reported they experienced a lot of stress throughout the day as of 2019, and the numbers are increasing. Some of the most common sources of stress include financial uncertainty, illness, moving, marriage, divorce, and politics. People also experience high levels of work-related stress. Studies have shown that workplace stress is directly responsible for healthcare costs of almost $190 billion annually.
Experiencing prolonged stress can lead to depression, high blood pressure, insomnia, erectile dysfunction, and a number of other health issues. Fortunately, there are safe, effective, and affordable strategies you can use to manage stress, including the options explored here.
CBD Oil
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring chemical that can be found in cannabis plants. Pure CBD oil tincture is made from this chemical and can be ingested or applied topically. You can opt to take capsules or eat chewable CBD oil gummies. You can also take a tincture of CBD oil directly or add CBD oil to your food. Those who opt to ingest CBD oil topically can purchase creams and salves.
Research suggests CBD oil may be able to help people manage anxiety and stress. It may also help alleviate some symptoms people experience from stress, such as high blood pressure and insomnia. That said, you should be sure to consult with your doctor before experimenting with any new supplement.
Physical Exercise
Your cortisol and adrenaline levels increase when you are under stress. Cortisol can elevate your blood sugar level. High levels of adrenaline can cause your heart to beat faster and raise your blood pressure. If you have high levels of cortisol and adrenaline for a prolonged period of time you will experience physiological symptoms, such as digestive problems and difficulty concentrating.
Physical exercise helps naturally manage your levels of adrenaline and cortisol. Exercise also causes your body to produce and release endorphins, which can improve your mood and reduce pain. Exercise can improve your outlook and increase your confidence. Whether you opt to take surfing lessons for beginners, go hiking, or do aerobics, you will benefit physically and emotionally by countering the adverse effects of stress.
Hobbies
You can help manage your stress levels by focusing on your personal needs. Hobbies are an effective way to do this. You can take your mind off of issues that have been causing stress by concentrating on activities that you enjoy.
You can validate your self worth by pursuing your hobbies. Investing time, energy, and money into your interests conveys to yourself and others that you are valuable and deserve to participate in activities you enjoy. You may even be able to combine your interests with your exercise regime. You can enjoy the physical benefits of taking surfing lessons and boost your confidence at the same time.
Meditate
Meditation refers to using specific techniques to promote a sense of mental and emotional well-being. When you practice meditation you will train your mind to focus on things that you find soothing or relaxing. Meditation can be an effective way of developing mental discipline and you can use the techniques involved to reduce your focus on issues that are causing you stress.
You will also learn to control your breathing when you meditate. Evidence suggests controlled breathing can reduce physiological symptoms of stress, such as muscle tension and high blood pressure. The symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be reduced by controlled breathing.
Healthy Input
You can counter the effects of stress by consuming a healthy diet. Stress can contribute to weight gain and a healthy diet can help you prevent weight gain. It also boosts your immune system, which can be negatively affected by long-term stress. You will also feel better about yourself when you eat healthily and avoid feelings of guilt consuming unhealthy foods can cause.
You will compound your stress if you spend a lot of time with people who cause drama or have a negative focus. Avoid one-sided relationships that make you feel responsible to care for the emotional needs of the other party on an ongoing basis. You will reduce your stress and increase your support system by focusing on healthy friendships with people who are supportive.