Stress Can be Such a Villain!

By Donna Stark

Are you having one of those superhero weeks? You know the ones I am talking about. The ones in which you coordinate everything to fall perfectly into place and nothing goes wrong. The ones in which you don't have to yell at your children to do their homework, to pick up their room ... or to bathe. The ones in which you actually prepare your meals on time, complete your work before the end of the day, and schedule everyone's activities like the boss you are. Yes, those are great weeks to have, and you should definitely appreciate them when they come along because not every week is going to run as smoothly. For most of us, the days in our weeks are filled with stress, and as much as those superhero weeks can lift us up, those stressful days can really bring us down.

Stress is Your Enemy

Stress can definitely play the role of villain in your superhero week. It stands ready and waiting to create as much havoc as possible in your life. It wants to interfere with all of your well-made plans, it wants to confuse and rattle you to the bone, but worst of all, it wants to attack your overall health and wellness. Let's take a look at some of the problems stress can bring to your health.

• Chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and dementia
• Erratic diet
• Forgetfulness/fogginess
• Headaches
• Lack of focus
• Fatigue
• Short temper/moodiness
• General aches and pains
• Skin breakouts

Be a Superhero and Save Yourself!

In order to reduce or maintain lower levels of stress, you need to find the time and energy to take care of yourself. That's right, take care of yourself! Let those around you step up a bit so that you can take a step back and focus on what you need. Giving more to yourself than you are typically used to can have a tremendous effect on your stress levels and your overall wellness. Here are some suggestions on how to do so.

• Ask your friends and loved ones for help
• Begin a new hobby that you find relaxing
• Take walks at lunch or after dinner
• Hit the gym and sweat the stress out
• Keep a gratitude journal
• Add yoga or meditation to your day
• Consume a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables
• Get plenty of rest and sleep
• Spend time with friends and family

Don't Let the Bad Guy Win

Just like villains, stress can present itself in so many different ways, which is why it is so important to know the signs and avoid it as quickly as possible. Don't let this villain win and don't let it wreck your week or your health. You've already shown your kids who's boss; it's now time to show the same to the things that stress you out.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cumming, Ga.