Are you a woman who is feeling the weight of life upon your shoulders? Busy women need to pay very close attention to their stress level and learn what to do to guard their bodies and minds against overload.
Good news! You can fight toxic stress and regain balance, putting an end to the hormonal turmoil. It all comes down to self-care.
The following simple actions could make all of the difference:
Get up earlier. Try to go to bed earlier the night before, allowing time in the morning to prepare for the day. Taking time to mentally and spiritually brace yourself for what’s ahead will quiet the stress response and give you a sense of control.
Eat a balanced breakfast every day. Include protein. For convenience, try a high-protein bar or breakfast shake. This will help with concentration in the workplace and can prevent afternoon fatigue.
Exercise daily or at least four times per week. Try fitting in 20 minutes of walking, playing with the kids, riding your bike, or gentle stretching at some point of the day. Even a lunchtime walk with a co-worker can be a good energy boost. An American Cancer Society study in 2001 found that women who exercised more than four hours each week had a 37 percent lower breast cancer risk than women who did not exercise.
Learn to say no. Say no whenever saying yes would stretch you too far. Then let it go.
Relax for 10 minutes during the day. Find a place where no one can interrupt you. Take time to breathe and quiet yourself and regroup mentally and emotionally. Even a short breather can reduce stress hormone levels. Reserve one day a week for whatever nurtures your soul, rest, relax, and worship.
Stop listening to negative talk. Your emotions don’t need the stress. Ignore gossip and pettiness that makes you feel frustrated or angry.
Nurture your friendships. Making time for your friends provides non-pressured space to unwind and connect on a healing level.
Plan a recreational activity once a week. Recreation relieves stress and is a great way to get your body moving and take your mind off workplace or home issues that may be troublesome.
Set aside a personal time. Whether it’s soaking in a hot bath or puttering in your yard in the evening, a little time for yourself will always give you a mental boost.
Best of Health, Nish!
Nisha Jackson, PhD, MS, WHCNP, HHP
www.justasknish.com
Nisha Jackson is one of the nation's leading bioidentical hormone & wellness experts. She is the host of the nationally syndicated radio show "Just Ask Nish", columnist, lecturer, and continues to be in high demand in her Southern Oregon-based specialty practices. With no hidden agendas, Nisha is relentless to uncover health solutions that work! If it's effective and good for you, it's good medicine!