Chronic stress can rewire the brain making it more susceptible to depression and anxiety. So how can you respond positively to stress? Is this even an option? Studies have found that failing to maintain a positive outlook makes people more susceptible to elevated inflammation implicated in many health problems, including the top killers, heart disease and cancer. Magazine4You spoke with Dr. Nelson who has spent more than 20 years studying, treating and teaching about the emotional causes of illness. Treating clients across the US and Canada he knows first hand what it takes to deal with stress. He teaches people to identify and release unresolved emotions from negative life experiences that lead them to react to stress in ways that are harmful to their health. Below he shares his top 5 tips for dealing with stressful situations in order to improve mood and health.
1. Recognize Unresolved Emotions are responsible for guiding (or misguiding) our choices on a daily basis:
For example, if you have a trapped emotion of anger from a past event, you’ll be more likely to become angry when future situations arise that may upset you. This is because part of your body is already resonating with anger, and is just waiting for someone (or something stressful) to light the fuse.
2. Listen To Your Body (and when necessary, say “no”):
Don’t volunteer to take on additional tasks if it interferes with your health, your family or your stress level – it won’t be worth it.
3. Exercise Daily:
Too busy to work out? Look for ways to incorporate more activity into your routine. “Find a way to work exercise into your daily chores,” Dr. Nelson advises. “Challenge yourself to get the whole house cleaned in half the normal time, and you’ll work up a sweat with all the scrubbing and running from room to room.”
4. Eat Right:
When you go out to eat with friends, come prepared with stories to tell so you’re talking more, and as a result, eating more slowly. Eat your salad first so you fill up on live food instead of the sugary and fattening stuff. Remember your body’s needs and respect them.
5. Take a Breather:
If you find people you are with are making you feel stressed out, go outside for a few minutes to get some fresh air. “Ask yourself if you’re overreacting,” Dr. Nelson explains. “Recognize your own feelings and analyze what the other person meant to say. Give the other person the benefit of the doubt – it’s likely no offense was meant. If you aren’t sure, ask for clarification, then respond appropriately, with kindness, with love and with forgiveness if you can.”
For more information on Dr. Nelson please visit www.DrBradleyNelson.com.
