’Tis the season for… stress.
From Thanksgiving to New Year, and everything in between, there are so many lovely things to enjoy about the holiday season! Parties and special events, baking, shopping for special gifts, holiday movies, traveling, and more. However, although it is an enjoyable time of year, it also tends to be jam packed with so much to do that you can find yourself overwhelmed and stressed.
Before you shrug it off as no big deal, it’s important to understand the potentially negative impact of chronic or longterm stress.
Some common negative effects of pro-longed stress include:
Heart Disease
Diabetes
High Blood Pressure
Obesity
Headache
Anxiety
Restlessness
Insomnia/Sleep Issues
Irritability or Anger
Chest Pain
Overeating or Undereating
Muscle Tension or Pain
Fatigue
Sadness or Depression
Social Withdrawal
Change in Sex Drive
Stomach Upset
Feeling Overwhelmed
Drug or Alcohol Misuse
The negative effects of stress can impact you mentally and physically, creating issues as well as exacerbating existing health issues.
At a time of year when our stress may be at an all time high, how can you balance your holiday to do list so stress doesn’t get the best of you?
1. Acupuncture: Acupuncture is at the top of our de-stress list. Why? Because it has been shown to promote balance in the nervous system, helping people with anxiety and stress. What’s more, acupuncture promotes positive mood, energy, restful sleep, and immune function. These issues often go hand in hand, with one impacting the other. Try acupuncture to manage stress and promote restful sleep, energy, and a positive mood.
2. Vitamin B12 Injections - Did you know that B vitamins can have an impact on stress? As we age, we tend to need more vitamin B12. Deficiencies in this essential nutrient can cause many issues including cognitive and mood issues, anemia, headaches, extreme fatigue, dizziness, and muscle weakness. The most absorbable option for vitamin B12 is via injection. There are many potential benefits of getting B12 injections, especially if you are deficient. Potential benefits include reduced stress, improved immune system function, restful sleep, weight management, improved focus, increased energy, and more.
3. Diaphragmatic Breathing: Did you know that by simply taking deep breaths with long, slow exhales, it actually signals your brain to relax? This is one of the easiest ways you can decrease stress in the moment. If chronic stress is wearing on you, make it a point to stop throughout the day to take a few deep, mindful breaths. Make a point to stop throughout the day to check-in with yourself and practice diaphragmatic breathing. You will be surprised at how much you can reduce stress and tension just be taking deep, mindful breaths throughout the day.
4. Balanced Nutrition – Nutrition is the foundation of health and wellbeing. This includes stress. Certain nutrient deficiencies can impact stress as well as mood and anxiety. So can eating excess processed food. The best ways to support a healthy mind and body is by getting the right nutrients, including healthy fats, lean proteins, B vitamins, omega 3 fatty acids, probiotics, vitamin D, magnesium, and calcium. Promote health by incorporating more whole, nutrient-rich foods. In some cases, supplementation may be needed. Consult your practitioner to address specific health and nutrient concerns.
7. Exercise - Physical activity is a great natural stress reliever! Working out releases endorphins, which are your body’s natural “feel good” chemicals. In addition to helping you manage stress, exercise is also great for overall mood and health, as well as weight management.
San Tan Valley, AZ Acupuncture
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