We live LIFE between our Ears and it stresses the daylights out of us! Try EXERCISE!!
STRESS! In psychology, stress is a feeling of strain and pressure. Stress is a type of psychological pain and affects our MENTAL HEALTH! This being Mental Health Week and most of us feeling STRESS , the question is what can we do.
McMaster University surveyed 40,000 on various coping skills ; problem solving , looking on the bright side, trying to relax , sharing , blaming oneself , ignoring it or praying. EXERCISE was ranked number 8. Those in that category were younger, single , more educated , active and mostly women. These used exercise as a coping mechanism rather than booze or drugs.
GOODLIFE Fitness claims EXERCISE trains the body to handle stress by producing less cortisol , reducing heart rates and helps establish the right mindset for mental wellness. Studies show that Exercising as part of goal setting pushes us to achieve more, helping us feel more balanced and in control when facing challenges! Team Training Coaches suggest the following HELPS!
- Think positively: Focus your energy on positive thoughts. Work to banish self-criticism and focus on your best qualities.
- Visualize success: Many successful athletes picture their game or race beforehand to imagine themselves performing at their best. Try doing the same with your daily responsibilities – whether it’s a meeting, a networking function, a stressful interaction.
- Practice self-compassion: Striving for perfection can be stressful. Accept that there may be days that don’t go as planned and you don’t accomplish what you hope to. Remember that tomorrow is a new day to keep moving towards your goals.
- Learn from your mistakes: Instead of dwelling on your mistakes, learn from them and move ahead. Follow this mantra: No failure, only feedback.
- Rethink stress: It’s possible to channel the energy from stress in a positive direction. Studies have shown that people who believed the symptoms of stress, like increased heart rate and body temperature were positive and to help your body perform better, had little to no long-term health effects of stress.
- Find time to recharge: Take time to rest on a regular basis, and make sure you get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Your mind and body both need that time to heal and rebuild.