5 Ways to Reduce Stress This Summer

While good stress can motivate us, negative stress can cause emotional, mental and physical challenges to anyone. Some of the negative effects of stress include elevated blood pressure, anxiety/depression, stomach/ digestion problems, headaches and even interference with a woman’s menstrual cycle and conception.

If you experience ANY negative symptoms as a result of stress, consider practicing one or more of the following stress-relieving/stress-managing tips:

• Exercise. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to combat stress. If you haven’t been physically active a simple walk in a place you find relaxing may be all you need or simple stretching exercises can help to relax your muscles and your mind. If you’re more active, you can challenge yourself with more advanced exercise. Moving your body activates endorphins, which help you feel better.

• Eat well. Even though it may make you feel better in the moment to eat junk or comfort food when you’re stressed, ultimately, it’ll do more harm than good. Instead, fill yourself with fruits and veggies high in B vitamins. Researchers have found that vitamin B helps to reduce stress in your body. Make a veggie/fruit smoothie! There are so simple, delicious recipes on the internet. (I make smoothies with almond milk, yogurt, frozen berries, spinach and a banana…) All you’ll taste are the berries!

• Focus on your breath. Breathing deeper and slower helps your body relax and also sends more oxygen to your brain, which allows you to let go of stress and tension. Try breathing in for a slow count of 4, hold for 4 and exhale slowly for 4. This “Grounding Exercise” helps calm and reduce anxiety.

• Take time for yourself. Even though it can be difficult to get out sometimes, just finding a quiet place to go where you feel at peace can be incredibly relaxing. Whether you read a book, listen to music or just sit quietly and listen to the sounds around you, regularly getting some “me” time is very healthy for your mental and physical health. Try setting aside time for something you enjoy doing, like a hobby

• Get sleep. Sometimes this is easier said than done, but making sure you’re getting enough sleep every night is extremely important. Lack of sleep causes a lot more stress, anxiety and depression to build up. Turn off the television. Consider a white noise machine if you need sound to sleep. Many white noise machines have additional settings such as “rain” or “ocean waves “for additional relaxation.
Finally, talking through your feelings with someone you trust can be a great way to reduce stress, as it helps you feel supported and understood.

As a social worker here at Soundview I have the privilege of connecting with women who are navigating stress surrounding pregnancy and parenting. If you’re facing the challenges surrounding pregnancy, whether planned or unplanned, please know that we’re here to support and empower you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

If you find yourself in a crisis situation and need to talk to someone immediately, please call one of the following:
LI Crisis Hotline: 516-679-1111 (FREE and confidential support 7 days per week) or CHAT @www.longislandcrisiscenter.org.
National Crisis & Suicide Prevention Hotline: 988 (24/7, FREE and confidential support)

If you’re experiencing chronic stress levels that are affecting your life and health, talk to your doctor right away. Stress doesn’t have to control your life!

Written by Kerri Megna, Social Worker