The Keys to Stress Reduction
By Emily Lindholm
Our society is already fast-paced and can be quite demanding on our time. Surely all of us can agree that 2020 brought on an abundance of extra concerns, including health, politics, and the environment. Although there are things we cannot control, what we can control is the way that we navigate through these times. We can control our reactions, and believe it or not, our stress levels.
Breathwork
There is a difference between taking deep breaths throughout the day and taking on a breathwork practice. There are so many types of breathwork practices, all ranging from the settle to the extreme where you need a guide to get you through. Breathwork techniques vary greatly, depending on their origin. Many techniques can be learned in yoga, such as pranayama breathing. The Taoists of China have the techniques that they blend with Qi Gong or Tai Chi. Regardless of whether or not you want to find a breathwork teacher or find a book and do it on your own, the benefits are extraordinary.
Our nervous systems respond to breath. When we breathe deep, we are telling our nervous systems that we are okay, that it can relax. Incorporating a breathwork practice, 15-20 minutes each day, will help to sustain the balance of our nervous systems. Taking the time to breathe each day can help us to deal with stress in a healthier way and may lead to an elevated sense of well-being.
Exercise
One of the best things we can do for our stress levels is to move our bodies! Movement helps us to bring energy into our bodies and restore the mind and body connection. It brings our systems back into balance, which can help us to access clarity and general feelings of rejuvenation. The best way to keep exercise consistent is to find what you enjoy. Dance in your living room if that's what you prefer. Get some rollerblades. Take an online yoga class. Whatever it is that makes you feel alive, do it consistently, and reap those benefits!
Treat Yourself
That's right, treat yourself to something special, such as a massage or a session with a chiropractor. Treat yourself to a warm bath with Epsom salts, anything relaxing that will help to calm the nervous system.
Chiropractic work is an excellent way to reduce stress, and if money is tight, there are certainly affordable options available. Check out The Joint Chiropractic. Their pricing is affordable without insurance, walk-ins are welcome, and their hours are flexible. There is generally a very short wait time to get in.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Nashua, N.H.