Relieve Stress & Take Control of Yourself

You may have some stress in your life…

Actually, I know for a fact you do–everyone does! What really matters, and what varies between individuals, is how we react to stress.

In my last blog post, I discussed the effects stress has on your brain and body. While many people have learned to simply “live with it,” the constant stress can, unless properly managed, have a serious negative impact on our bodies.

Let me say this again…everyone has stress! It is impossible to fully eliminate stress, but we can learn how to cope it. Successful stress management translates into a more successful and positive well-being. In this blog, I will focus on some simple stress relieving techniques that you can incorporate into your daily routines.

Focus more on the NOW

People often experience stress because of an attachment to the past or worrying about the future. Rather than being stuck in a different time, focus on the now. By paying attention to the now, you will begin to notice what is new and different, which will make daily routines more enjoyable and less stressful.

Far too many people walk around on automatic pilot and are not truly aware of where they are or what they are doing (i.e. reading, eating, or working). For example, you can practice being mindful with these two techniques:

• At any moment of the day, simply stop, take a deep breath, and notice where you are. Notice what is happening and take in every little detail. You may discover something new or even learn something about yourself.

• Get in tune with your senses: Take a walk, feel the ground beneath your feet, smell the flowers in the air, listen to the birds chirping. You will lower your anxiety and increase your happiness by learning to be more mindful.

What does it mean to be mindful?

Mindfulness is the awareness of what is happening in the present moment. It is a state of being that involves both concentration and acceptance, paying attention to thoughts and sensations without judgment.

In addition to reducing anxiety and stress, research has shown that mindfulness boosts working memory, increases focus and cognitive flexibility, increases relationship satisfaction, and decreases emotional reactivity.

Meditate on a regular basis.

Meditation can give you a sense of calm, peace, and balance that benefits your emotional well-being and your overall health.

When you meditate, you wash away the information overload that builds up every day and contributes to your stress. Meditation might also be useful if you have a medical condition, especially one that may be worsened by stress.

Meditation is a generic term for the many ways to a relaxed state of being. There are many types of meditation and relaxation techniques that have meditation components. All share the same goal of reaching inner peace. Mindfulness meditation is one technique to broaden your conscious awareness.

Yoga is a popular type of meditation.

Considered a type of exercise as well, yoga involves a series of postures and controlled breathing exercises to support a more flexible body and a calm mind.

As you move through poses that require balance and concentration, you’re encouraged to focus less on your busy day and more on the moment.

Remember: You have control over your mind and body! The science of neuroplasticity:

The structure of your brain is constantly undergoing changes through plasticity. Mindset, stress, and behaviors are always shifting. Neuroplasticity makes it possible to change the structure and function of your brain.

Taking control of your brain and body with the use of these stress-relieving techniques will help improve the structure and connectivity of your brain. On a practical level, these techniques can help you cope with the stressful demands of society such as work-related or relationship conflicts.

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The Aesthetic & Wellness Center is not responsible or liable for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis or any other information, services or products that you obtain through this site. After reading articles, watching videos or reading other content from this website, you are encouraged to review the information carefully with your professional healthcare provider or skin care specialist.