Hormones 2016

Stress management
Get daily exercise
The infamous ’runners high’ isn’t a phenomenon isolated solely to runners;
exerting yourself physically releases endorphins that make you happy. That
means that if you’re stressed, you can cheer yourself up and throw your
anxiety out the window just by making your heart work a bit harder. Head
for a bike ride or swim, pick up some weights, or play your favourite sport
to gain both physical and mental health (adaa, 2016).
Focus on your sleep
When people get stressed and overwhelmed with a million and one things
to do, often one of the first things to be sacrificed is sleep. However, this
is one of the biggest health mistakes you can make. Getting adequate sleep
allows your body to recharge and refresh, leaving you with a clean slate in
the morning (sleepfoundation, 2016).
• If you don’t get enough sleep, your body can’t get rid of the excess
hormones and toxins that have built up and cause stress, making your
stress a never-ending cycle. Try to get 7–9 hours of sleep on a nightly
basis.
Cuddle up more often
If you are in a healthy relationship, try going to your partner for a bit of
physical touch. Studies have shown that regular cuddling, kissing, and sex
all release oxytocin - a hormone that produces happiness and reduces stress
(psychologytoday, 2012a). That’s right - some of your favourite activities
actually improve your mental well-being. Do these on a regular basis to
keep your hormone levels up in general, making it less likely that youll get
stressed out in the first place.
Practice your spirituality
A top reason many people participate in religious practices – to find relief of
stress and anxiety. If you are already a part of a religious group, try turning
towards it more during your times of stress for its peaceful benefits. It is
likely you will find relief with the support of your faith community, while
growing stronger spiritually simultaneously (greatist, 2013).
• If you suffer from chronic stress, consider joining a religious group,
and see what inner guidance and comfort it has to offer.
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