Healthy Living Solutions

5 Speedy Stress Busters

Stress can be motivating or immobilizing, depending on how we handle it.

According to Erik Johnson, Wellness Consultant with Healthy Living Solutions of California, stress has become an integral part of our daily life - and the better we can manage our stress, the more we enjoy life.*

Johnson recommends keeping your stress at manageable levels with mini stress breaks throughout the day. Next time you feel your stress level rising, try one of these five speedy stress busters:*

Have a drink – of water, that is. Dehydration can make stress symptoms worse so sit back and sip a cool glass of water a few times each day. Start your day gently with a cup of warm water or try a mug of hot water and lemon for a soothing after dinner beverage – enjoy slowly and savor the flavor of the moment.*

Take a breather – literally. When we are under extreme stress, we can almost forget to breathe. Deep breathing exercises will clear your mind and make you ready to tackle the world again. Inhale slowly and deeply, allowing the air to extend your abdomen. Exhale completely, slowly pushing all the air out with your stomach muscles. Repeat a few times until you feel more relaxed.*

Grab a bite. But skip the sugars and caffeine that will only bring on more stress as your system yo-yos from highs to lows. Your body craves carbohydrates (comfort food) when stressed so give it healthy carbs like whole grains, fruits and veggies. A steaming bowl of soup is a great stress buster. And studies indicate the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseed can be positively uplifting.*

Get moving. A quick walk around the block on your lunch hour – or just around the parking lot on your coffee break – can bring the stress level from a difficult morning back down to a manageable level. And some intensive aerobic exercise – swimming, biking, racquetball, an aerobic dance class or just walking the dog for at least a half hour can be a great way to get your stress levels down and energy levels up.*

Zone out. A few minutes of meditation or listening to music or the soothing sounds of nature can do wonders for your stress levels. Keep a tape or cd player with earphones handy at work. And at the end of the day, a stroll through the park or a few minutes sitting under a tree in your yard may be just the stress relief you need.*

For more hints on supporting your body and stress, go to www.hls-herbs.com.