SELF CARE TIPS TO REDUCE STRESS
Hi Friends! Welcome back to the blog! Today we are talking about the importance of self care. We all know that eating healthy is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, but did you know that self care is a big aspect of that too? Self care is simply taking steps to properly care for physical, emotional and mental health. Self care is not selfish, it’s an important part of a healthy lifestyle.
One of the best things we can do for self care is reduce our stress levels. Stress can affect our physical health, mood as well as behavior. Chronic, long term stress can lead to headaches, muscle tension, anxiety, anger, depression, overeating or undereating, social withdrawals and even exercising less. If the stressors in our life are left unchanged, it can also lead to more serious health problems like obesity, high blood pressure and heart problems. We know how stressful the Holiday season can be with traveling and being around lots of people, which is why we wanted to provide you with some inspiration to practice self care to help reduce and manage your stress!
15 SELF CARE TIPS
Get Moving
Exercise provides your body with endorphins which naturally reduce your stress levels as well as improve your mood and ability to sleep! Exercise can consist of walking, running, hiking, strength training or anything that gets body moving! Aim for 30 minutes to 1 hour of movement 3-5 times per week.
Eat Real Food
Good nutrition is key to feeling your best, but did you know that eating real foods packed with vitamins and minerals can help you de-stress and as well as help the body cope with the demands put on our the body from stress. Some foods we recommend consuming are dark leafy greens, berries, nuts, seeds, protein and of course real dark chocolate! Here are some HGG Recipes to help nourish your body during times of stress.
HGG Recipes:
Blueberry Cardamom Breakfast Oatmeal
For More Recipes Visit + Subscribe To The HGG YouTUbe Channel Here!
Meditate
Meditation is a time of reflection and relaxation. You can simply sit in silence and practice deep breathing, you can use meditation as a time to pray or as a time to focus on positive words or phrases that bring you peace. Find a quiet spot to meditate, even it’s in your car at the grocery store parking lot! You may also enjoy playing peaceful music. Take a deep breath in and then exhale. Repeat this pattern of deep breathing. Relax your forehead, your eyes, your mouth, let your shoulders relax and continue to take deep breaths. You can meditate for one minute or as long as you have time for! There are numerous studies that show the benefits of regular meditation to help reduce stress.
Journal
Journaling can be a simple way for you to make a list, reflect on the day, write down goals, jot down your favorite quotes or express your thoughts, feelings and emotions. I personally find that when I make a list or write out my thoughts that is greatly helps reduce my stress and anxiety. Journals come in so many fun styles and we love using colorful pens!
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated keeps your skin looking refreshed and keeps your digestive system working properly! In fact signs of dehydration include a slow sluggish metabolism, feeling on edge, difficulty making decisions, dry dull skin and even achy joints. Have trouble consuming water? Try adding fruit for natural flavor or indulge yourself in cute new water bottle.
Take Some Time for Yourself
Life can be chaotic and sometimes you just need time by yourself to recharge. Go for a walk, read a new book, get a pedicure or catch up on your favorite tv show!
Compliment and Connect With A Friend
Self care doesn’t have to be completely self-centered. Reach out to a friend to reconnect and talk about life. Find joy in complimenting your friend and letting them know how important they are to you!
Unplug
We are constantly distracted with emails, cell phones, tv, social media and so on. Take a few hours a day, an entire day or maybe even a week to unplug from things that aren’t necessary. Replace this time with family, time for yourself or grab coffee with a friend!
Try Scent Therapy
Essential oils are oils that are derived from plants and can be used through diffusion, application or consumption. Oils have been used for thousands of years for overall wellness. Diffusing lavender, rose, chamomile or frankincense may reduce your anxiety and tension. This is my favorite essential oil diffuser!
Engage in Positive Self Talk
If you happen to say something negative about yourself, immediately change it into a postive! One of our favorite ways to do this is to keep sticky notes on the mirror that we can see every morning. We love putting quotes, goals we’ve accomplished and things we are thankful for. We know how amazing and capable you are and want you to believe it too!
Do an Activity that is Relaxing
Enjoy your favorite activity or try something new! This could be painting, listening to music, getting outdoors, organizing your house, etc. We love trying new things because it engages our mind and helps us destress!
Try Yoga or Stretching
Yoga is a mind-body practice that focuses on controlled breathing, physical body poses and relaxation. This specific type of exercise can benefit you physically, emotionally and mentally. Not sure where to start? All HGG Premium Members have access to a few beginner yoga videos!
Rest and Sleep
Rest and sleep is an important part in reducing stress and maintaining overall health. Adequate sleep can help improve your mood, boost your immunity and help you think clearly throughout the day. Calm your mind before you rest or sleep by reading a book, diffusing some essential oils or listening to peaceful music.
Enjoy an At-Home Spa Day
Treat yourself to a luxurious bubble bath, face mask, manicure and chilled glass of fresh fruit infused water. Adding epsom salts and a few drops of calming essential oils to a bath can also help you relax. I love this brand of epsom salts.
Laugh & Smile
We know that laughter is one of the greatest feelings in the world, but did you know that it can also lower your stress hormones? Take time to laugh at yourself, at a funny tv show or with family and friends! Also, have you smiled today? It may seem silly, but try smiling while you’re working, in the car or on a walk. It will boost your mood!
Share Your Self Care Favorites!
What are some of your favorite ways to de-stress and practice self care? Share with us in the comments below!
