Throughout the year, stress can often build up and can have negative effects on your body, mind and daily life. Cold wind and cloudy days are enough to make anyone gloomy and lethargic. Here are some simple ways to reduce stress this season.
Eat Mood-Boosting Foods
Cold and bitter days can often wean us off cooking and make us indulge in fast foods such as cookies, burgers, pizza and ice-cream that’s filled with carbohydrates and sugar. These types of treats also act as comfort food when we’re feeling anxious which is why we often find ourselves reach for it more often than normal during winter. Consuming such carbs leads to a boost in serotonin levels which is a chemical reaction in the brain that promotes feelings of calmness and relaxation. So feel free to enjoy these foods but stick to moderate portion sizes.
Drink Tea
Winter is a great time to enjoy tea. Tea can also help to increase your fluid intake. Natural teas such as peppermint, chamomile, lemon, passion flower and green tea; can help decrease stress and anxiety by promoting calmness and relation. Green tea contains theanine which is an amino acid that promotes relaxation and helps alleviate stress. Drinking green tea can also be a great substitute against other caffeinated beverages. During your de-stressing detox, it’s important to remember that caffeine can worsen the stress response.
Meditate
We’ve all heard about how meditation is a great way to relieve stress, however we can never quite find the time to do it. Research has proved time and time again the benefits that meditation has in lowering your heart rate, blood pressure and improving cognitive performance. Set aside 10 minutes a day for mediation throughout this winter – preferably every morning. Sit in a comfortable position and allow your mind to settle on a focal point – for example your breath, an image, a mantra or a sound.
Have a Hot Bath
There is no better way to finish off a cold and rainy day than to soak in a hot bath. Try infusing your bath with lavender oils and epsom salts to soothe tired muscles and alleviate stress in joints. Perhaps invest in a luxurious scented candle, put on some soothing music and lose yourself in the spa-like environment.
Tea, Blankets and Books
If you prefer to relax the more old-fashioned way, this is the perfect way to de-stress for you. Why not snuggle up on your couch with a cosy blanket, a warm cup of tea or cocoa and a good book? Reading can help you de-stress, if only for a little while.
De-stressing is an essential part of taking care your health and wellbeing. Looking after your oral health is another way to take care of overall health in the long run. If you are due for a check-up or are concerned about any other oral health issue, contact us on (07 3221 0677 or make an online enquiry for more information.