Keeping Stress at Bay
Wellness is an all-encompassing term that is so important, especially when managing stress. We’ve already covered key ways in which we manage stress using Chinese herbal remedies, acupuncture, acupressure, and mindfulness. However, there are still several ways in which we can keep he stress levels low in our day to day activities. The key to stopping stress at its root is the mindfulness to release the stress each and everyday. This can be done in a variety of ways!
Exercise or Sports
Whether you enjoy running, yoga, or even playing basketball, all of these activities are great ways of encouraging more circulation and flow of qi. This decreases any stagnation that occurs in the body when there is a buildup of stress. However, if exercise immediately makes you feel fatigued, it is important to start slow and stay consistent with gentle exercises such as yoga, tai chi, or short walks. Immediate fatigue is a sign that your body is depleted in resources and you shouldn’t overexert yourself as you are building up your energy with better lifestyle and nutritional choices.
Rest and Meditation
It is essential to get as much rest as possible during the hours of 11 PM and 3 AM as this period of time is when your body is functioning optimally to circulate your blood and qi as well as reset for the next day. Meditation is also an important and effective way to train your mind to unwind after the daily stresses of work and other responsibilities. There is no right or wrong way to meditate as long as the work being done is to unwind and find your own sense of calm. This may mean 5 minutes in the morning to focus on your breath or 15 minutes of listening to calming music while taking a light walk after a meal. Meditation can be done at any moment and is crucial in managing stress as it is to the mind as exercise is to the body.
– Learn more about Stress is closely related to the liver according to Chinese Medicine in our blog post here
– Learn more about two major acupressure points that we use often in the clinic for stress reduction and calming the mind here.
Nutrition
Food is medicine! Incorporate different types of food into your diet depending on which symptoms appear with elevated stress levels. Include more oils and grains and as well as ginger when having indigestion. Dark leafy green vegetables should be taken everyday as these foods nourish the Liver.
It is key to avoid high quantities of alcohol, sugar, caffeine, or very spicy foods as this will increase stagnation and inflammation and make the symptoms worse.
Struggling with stress management? Schedule a personalized consultation today!