Stress is unavoidable, however…
Our bodies were designed to feel and respond to stress. Stress is a normal part of life and a sign that your reflexes are working properly. The stress chemicals cortisol, adrenaline, and norepinephrine prompt us to act rapidly in the face of danger, and they frequently save our lives. These hormones, on the other hand, are only useful for acute, short-term issues. Stress can be harmful to our health if we are exposed to it for an extended period of time.
Chronic stress (when the body is exposed to stressors at such a high frequency or intensity that the neurological system is unable to relax) can lead to health problems.
Here’s a list of easy, practical things you can do for yourself or a loved one to relieve stress.
 Exercise
Physical “stress” on the body can really help to relieve mental tension. Regular exercise reduces stress hormone levels and promotes the release of endorphins in the body. (Endorphins are the hormones that naturally increase your mood.)
Exercise can also help you get a better night’s sleep. This can help those whose stress is interfering with their sleep.
Find an exercise style that you enjoy and that suits your physical capabilities. Walking, jogging, dancing, riding, swimming, yoga, pilates, and other activities are just a few of the alternatives available.
 Music
Who doesn’t enjoy listening to music?
Music, particularly classical, slow compositions, can aid to ease stress. It can help you relax by slowing your heart rate and pulse, lowering your blood pressure, and lowering your stress hormone levels. Music can also serve as a diversion, allowing you to relax, sleep, or meditate more easily.
You can locate music you enjoy and listen to it whenever you can, whether you’re a senior or a caretaker. Before you go to bed, listen to music while doing the chores, walking the dog, or driving. Find methods to include your favourite music into your daily routine.
Art
It’s time to reconnect with your creative side! Adult colouring books with elaborate geometric patterns have been a popular stress-relieving tool in recent years, and with good cause.
Painting, colouring, beading, and other similar activities have been shown to have a meditative influence on your mental state. Getting creative and immersing yourself in the activity at hand might help you unwind and de-stress. Seniors and their caregivers can benefit from participating in creative activities together or during the caregiver’s free time.
Connection
Do you feel overwhelmed? Get a hug from someone you care about.
Whether you’re a senior or a caregiver, social support and meaningful connections can help you relax. It can make you feel like you belong and have importance.
Furthermore, pleasant physical touch with family and friends can aid in the release of oxytocin and the reduction of cortisol. This can aid in the reduction of blood pressure and heart rate.
You can also use the phone or video calls to communicate with relatives and friends. Even interacting with a pet can have stress-relieving effects if no one is available for a cuddle or a call.
Deep Breathing
Inhale deeply through your nose, then gently exhale through your mouth.
Simply concentrating on your breathing or modifying your breathing pattern will significantly reduce your stress levels.
During a stressful meeting or in a crowded environment, you can focus on and slow your breathing for three to five minutes to help you relax.
There are numerous breathing techniques and patterns to choose from. Here’s an easy one: Inhale deeply through your nose and notice how your tummy expands as the air fills it. As you inhale, softly count to four. Hold for a second, then gently exhale through your mouth while counting to four.
 A healthy Diet
Examine what you’re putting into your body. (If keeping track of your diet is difficult for you, keep a food journal and write down what and when you consume.)
The first step is to cut down on your caffeine intake. Caffeine is safe and even beneficial in moderate doses, but large doses of caffeine can exacerbate stress symptoms in persons who are already stressed or anxious.
Emotional eating, as well as consuming a lot of sugar and fat, can bring a short sense of relaxation. However, in the long run, it will simply add to your tension.
Refined carbohydrates (white bread, pastries, potato chips, and so on) can produce a blood sugar increase. You may get m if your blood sugar drops too low.
Laughter
The phrase “laughter is the best medicine” has been confirmed time and over again through research.
Laughter relaxes stiff muscles and lowers the stress reaction of your nervous system. Laughter also improves your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles, and boosts your brain’s endorphin production.
Watch comedy shows, spend time with individuals who make you laugh, and simply laugh at yourself.
You won’t have to go to the pharmacy to get this prescription!
When You’re Feeling Blue
Stress is an unavoidable aspect of life. But when it becomes chronic, you need to take control and use stress-relieving measures. Seniors and caregivers are more likely to experience stress than other people.
Do you have a stressful situation? Here’s a quick rundown of everything:
Go for a brisk walk.
- Play classical music.
- Take out a coloring book.
- Hug a loved one.
- Do deep breathing exercises for five minutes.
- Eat some salmon, eggs, avocado, yogurt, dark chocolate, almonds, or walnuts.
- Listen to a comedian you like.
Reach Out!
Looking for more useful information? Personal care aides, registered nurses, and home health aides are among the trained in-home caregivers employed by Verrolyne Health Care.
Visit our website and complete the online form to learn more about the medical aid, personal care, and friendship that we offer.
