Stress affects people in different ways, both physically and emotionally, and to varying degrees. Research shows that stress can sometimes be positive by making us more alert and helping us perform better in certain situations. However, over a prolonged period of time, stress can take its toll.
It seems our lives today are constant to-do lists and commitments. November 6th is National Stress Awareness Day, a day that encourages people to recognise and manage stress in healthy ways, emphasising the importance of self-care and stress reduction techniques.
Dr. Phil Kieran is a Cork based GP. He says it’s important to take stock of our lives and manage stress.
“Today’s world is hurried and hectic, and it’s crucial we begin to take heed of how it is affecting our bodies. We need to take note of what our days look like and identify places we can improve or take a few moments for ourselves. It’s important not to ignore physical signs of stress, too. Finding a balance between responsibility to others and to yourself is important in reducing stress levels. At the end of the day, try not to be too hard on yourself – keep things in perspective. We all have bad days.”
Here are Dr Phil’s five tips to help cope with everyday stress:
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Exercising
Physical activity can be very effective in relieving stress and improving our sleep. It burns off excess energy and frees the mind. Even light exercise like a walk in nature, taking in fresh air, can make a big difference. Try to find an activity that you’re passionate about to keep you motivated.
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Sleep
Stress can have a big impact on our sleep patterns. It can make it more difficult to get to or stay asleep. Sleep is important for mental health. It helps us to think clearly and gives us the energy to deal with issues. Most people need 5 to 9 hours of sleep a night with more than 7 hours recommended for adults.
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Self Care
Often touted as a treat or luxury, self-care is a significant part of feeling and staying well. Taking time out to look after ourselves can play a big role in our lives. Even taking small moments for ourselves can help build a more resilient version of ourselves to deal with stress. Taking a supplement like Zenflore Calm as part of a daily routine can also help with relaxation and emotional balance while supporting a busy mind.
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Catching up with family and friends
Community can have a really positive impact on relieving stress levels. Socialising and meeting up with friends and family can help us forget about worries or help us through a trying time – a problem shared is a problem halved!
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Eating well and staying hydrated
What we eat can make a difference to our overall health – the choices we make can improve our physical and mental health. It’s important to make sure we are drinking enough water, too. Proper hydration is vital for maintaining cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. A diet rich in foods such as fruit, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds can boost our energy and mental health.
