Amidst the Coronavirus Precautions: Tips for both Today and Beyond
Stress wreaks havoc on our bodies if we allow it! There can be trials and tribulations of many kinds. We have all experienced stress in one shape or another. Right now we are facing a new challenge–an attack on our health! This situation can bring with it a lot of uncertainty, stress and anxiety/depression. So how are you handling the impact this has had on your life?
Here is how stress can even further disrupt your health:
- It increases Cortisol production associated with weight gain, an inability to loss weight or gain muscle and premature aging.
- It decreases nutrient absorption and increases nutrient loss through the urinary system.
- It decreases gut flora by destroying healthy intestinal bacteria and can lead to immune problems, skin disorders, nutrient deficiencies, and digestive distress.
- It increases salt retention which can lead to high blood pressure.
- It decreases the thyroid hormone which can negatively affect your metabolism.
- It decreases sex hormones which leads to loss of libido and lack of energy.
- And so much more!
When you make your mental and spiritual health a priority you can prevent stress from tearing up your body. Here are just some of the benefits:
Mental Health
- Reduction in anxiety
- Improved moods
- Greater sense of calm or inner peace
- Clearer thinking
- Increased self-esteem
- Reduced risk of depression
- Improvements in relationships
- More energy
Spiritual Health
- Ability to cope with life situations
- Encompasses gratitude, compassion and forgiveness
- Greater sense of belonging to a group
- Improved health (such as lower blood pressure, less depression/anxiety)
- Relationship with God gives purpose, hope and salvation
So, now that you know how stress can be harming your body and how beneficial it is to keep it under control, let’s explore the many ways you can tell stress, “Not today!”
Ways to Stop Stress in Its Tracks
Here’s just a few ideas: (I’m sure you’ll have plenty to add to this list)
- Meditation
- Journaling
- Reading
- Going for a walking
- Talking to trusted friend
- Exercising
- Talking to God
- Getting Counseling Services
- Prayer
- Speaking to your Pastor
- Getting some sunshine/feeling the wind on your face
I hope this gives you some encouragement to TAKE CONTROL of your mental and spiritual health! These both carry so much weight in your overall health!
**Info taken from The Health Coach Institute coaching modules and from PositivePsychology.com , VeryWellMind.com, Sharecare.com, Everydayhealth.com, and Psychologytoday.com
