Lifestyle changes to manage stress

Lifestyle changes to manage stress (Photo: iStock)

Stress is a natural physiological reaction that prepares us for threats or challenges.

However, chronic stress that is left unchecked can have a detrimental impact on our physical and mental health leading to conditions like anxiety, depression and even physical ailments.

Not to be taken lightly especially if it is a minor who is in distress, the good news is that stress tolerance is not a fixed trait.

It's a skill that can be learned and honed through consistent effort. Many of us can sit with uncomfortable emotions, experiences and feelings, not everyone can. As a result, they are more likely to resort to harmful behaviours or substance abuse.

According to studies, mindfulness practices like meditation can significantly reduce stress levels. By focusing on the present moment and observing your thoughts and feelings without judgment, you can cultivate a sense of calm and inner peace.

Trivial as it sounds, distractions help take the mind away from what is causing that discomfort and here is why. Our thoughts significantly influence our emotional stress response.

Dr Aaron Beck, a pioneer in cognitive therapy emphasises the importance of challenging negative thought patterns.

When faced with a stressful situation, you should ask yourself if your reaction is the best way to look at that particular situation and you will have your answer. Reframing the situation in a more positive light can significantly reduce stress.

If you find yourself battling these negative emotions quite often then you have to prioritise a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise for example will help to manage stress hormones and improve overall mood.

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains provides the essential nutrients needed to cope with stress effectively. Now is the time to put down that cheeseburger and soda.

You want to look into how well you manage your time. You must develop an effective time management solution if you constantly feel overwhelmed and get ulcers from sitting in traffic as you count down seconds to reporting time.

If you are in the office, choose to work on tasks that help you feel more in control thus minimising stress. Techniques like the Eisenhower Matrix can be used to categorise tasks based on urgency and importance. Doing so will allow you to focus on what matters most.