Stress might feel like it’s all in the mind. But being constantly triggered by stressors at home, work, and out in the world has a very real effect on the body. Chronic stress can play a role in many health issues, such as eating, sleep and mood disorders, and heart disease.
Although not yet proven in research, it’s likely that stress triggers inflammation, a known factor in heart disease. Stress can also contribute to heart disease through the unhealthy habits people fall back on to help them de-stress, like overeating, smoking, or drinking too much alcohol. Stressed people may also lack energy or time to exercise.
Embracing new ways to manage stress and your response to stressors can make a big difference for your heart health. Try these ideas for adding heart healthy de-stressing habits to your life.
MOVE YOUR BODY
Mood-boosting endorphins move through your body when you exercise, and physical activity helps you build your heart disease defense. It lowers blood pressure, strengthens the heart muscle, and supports a healthy weight.
TAKE A DAILY SCREEN BREAK
Staying connected to news, social media, and email 24/7 takes its toll. Enjoy a guilt-free screen break each day to escape from the stress that streams in.
SIMPLIFY SELF-CARE
When it comes to de-stressing, little moments can have a big impact. Listen to your favorite playlist, take a bath, or spend time with a hobby that brings you joy.
LAUGH!
A positive outlook is good for your heart. Lower levels of stress hormones, less arterial inflammation, and higher “good” HDL cholesterol are all linked to laughter.
TURN INWARD
Meditation, yoga, and prayer relax the mind and body. Meditation, which encourages deep breathing and quieting mental noise, is known to reduce heart disease risk factors like high blood pressure.
Source: www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/5-ways-to-de-stress-and-help-your-heart
Take a Mindful Moment
Stress can play a major role in heart disease because it can increase risk of poor health behaviors. Chronic stress can increase risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke.
Try this mindful moment to help work at reducing stress!
4-7-8 Breathing Technique
- Inhale through your nose for 4 counts
- Hold that breath for 7 counts
- Breathe out through your mouth for 8 counts
This can be done throughout the day when you feel anxious or stressed. It can help calm your mind, reduce the stress response, and even help with falling asleep!