Statistics reveal that each year one of every 3 Americans, dies from a heart disease or stroke. Many of these deaths are preventable through small lifestyle changes. Most of us are already aware as to what risks we face and yet fail to take action. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and eliminating tobacco use are a few of the most crucial factors that help in lowering the risk of contracting heart diseases.
Though a clear link between stress and heart diseases is yet to be established, stress too plays an important role in general wellbeing. Studies suggest that when the body and mind is subjugated to stress, the body releases hormones that quicken the heartbeat and increase blood pressure.
If stress is not managed properly and you are experiencing these effects regularly, inherent damage may occur in the walls of the arteries. This increases the risk of contracting heart ailments. Stress and lack of sleep is associated with irregular heartbeat, high BP, and diabetes
Some amount of stress can be easily averted by learning to say NO to extra chores or responsibilities than can cramp your calendar. Learning to distress can dramatically reduce the negative effects of stress on your body. Here are a few tips on how you can distress and manage stress effectively.
Breathe deeply: When you are faced with a particularly stressful situation, take a few minutes off to breathe deeply. Count up to 5 and breathe deeply focusing on your breath while envisioning the stress blowing away from your body. Do these 10 times and you will feel instantly rejuvenated.
Exercise: Make time to exercise! Take a midday break and move your body. If you cannot make time to exercise, walk down the stairs and up again during your lunch break. Studies state that exercise releases endorphins – the feel good hormone. Also, physical activity helps release muscle tension and soothes the aches and pains of stress. You can remove yourself from a stressful situation by taking a short walk. This will allow you to refocus and handle the situation in a better manner.
Do things you like: Make time, relax and unwind. Do things you enjoy doing. It can be something as simple as sitting quietly, reading a book, listening to some foot tapping numbers or indulging in some yoga.
Receive regular chiropractic care: Negative effects such as muscle tension and contraction cannot just slow you down, but also lead to misalignments of the spine. Consult an experienced chiropractor who can detect and adjust these misalignments and put you back on your feet. Chiropractic care is safe and can effectively alleviate body aches and pains and help you function better.
Stress may be unavoidable, but the negative effects of stress are not. Learn to deal with stress and reduce its damaging effects on your body and your risk for contracting heart diseases.