Job changes… Illness, bills, personal life…You can’t always control what causes stress, but how you cope can actually minimize your chance of developing heart disease. Although it may not be the primary cause of heart disease, uncontrolled anxiety can affect other risk factors like high cholesterol or blood pressure. Don’t give up; try these tips to help you stay calm and healthy.
Exercise, exercise, exercise
Studies show that people who are more active during the day sleep better at night. Physical activity not only clears your mind, it also releases natural good-mood-boosting chemicals called endorphins.
Make Time for Yourself
Close your office door to take a few deep breaths, listen the spring rain drops, or take a soak in the tub before you start preparing dinner… just let life slow down a bit. You’ll feel more patient and refreshed when you resume your normal activities.
It’s OK to Say No
Have you ever agreed to something because you didn’t want to disappoint somebody? We all feel guilty saying no. But you can end up feeling resentful when you feel pressured into accepting an invitation or signing on for a project you don’t really want to do. Remember, it’s healthy to be “selfish” by considering your own needs as important as everyone else’s.
Get Your Daily Dose of D
Vitamin D, the “sunshine vitamin”, is also crucial for helping your bones absorb and retain calcium. Take a break from work or other activities to walk outside in the middle of the day when the sun is at its peak and don’t forget to take your “D” supplements.
Try to avoid the bad habits
Instead of reacting to stress by smoking, eating more, exercising less or drinking too much look for healthy ways to resolve what’s bothering you.
Share the Workload
Is your mantra, “If you want something done right, do it yourself?” Maybe it’s time you learned the joys of delegating! While it’s unlikely that anyone else will tackle a task exactly the way you would, sharing the burden helps you accomplish more, which in itself reduces stress.
Develop a Positive and Realistic Outlook
Nobody’s perfect. So cut yourself a break when you make a mistake or don’t reach all your expectations and enjoy the moment.
Healthy Heart is made by a Happy Mind
Over time, negative emotions can take a serious toll: raising your blood pressure, weakening your immune system, even increasing your risk of heart disease. So don’t let stress or anger get the best of you. Enjoy the world around you. Count your blessings. And make time for the people closest to you—including yourself.
Remember: “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass… It’s about learning to dance in the rain.“
Submitted by: Andreea Dragomir