As we get ready for Spring what does your to-do list look like? Is it already growing with projects to do and events to prepare for? There is excitement around what the warmer weather will bring but there can also be a lot of stress and feeling overwhelmed because there’s always so much to experience and get done during these warmer months.
April is National Stress Awareness Month, and I think this is the perfect time to recognize the importance of talking about how we normalize stress. Have you ever noticed sometimes being busy feels like a badge of honor? Ever been enjoying some much needed free time, only to have someone say, “must be nice!”We often don’t prioritize rest, joy and play in our lives.
Before getting into some simple ways to help manage your stress. First we should talk about Cortisol because it’s such an important thing to understand about your Body when it comes to stress.
Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and is often nicknamed the "stress hormone" Cortisol increases to help your Body respond to stress and challenges. It also helps regulate metabolism, control blood sugar, and assist the immune system. It’s also involved in the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, and helps manage inflammation. It’s quite the powerhouse!
It’s a normal and natural thing for Cortisol to kick in when needed - for example when your alarm doesn’t go off, and your Body needs to do something to get you out of bed and into the shower NOW - that’s Cortisol. However, so many of us are experiencing high levels for prolonged periods of time due to a busy lifestyle, and our Bodies never get the chance to downshift and regulate.
So here are some easy things you can do to promote that drop in cortisol and re-balance your Body:
Laughter is Medicine: Spontaneous laughter is associated with “greater reduction in cortisol levels as compared with usual activities.” So, watch a stand up comic or meet up with that really funny friend, and giggle for your health.
The Power of Scent: Sometimes a smell can enhance our mood through association of things that we enjoy. A lime/coconut candle might trigger happy memories of the beach. Sandalwood can feel earthy and grounding. For me when going through periods of stress menthol, and eucalyptus are the scents I reach for. There are a few studies, like this one, that show there can be a connection between the respiratory system and central nervous system.
Mother Nature: Fresh air + sunshine really are a one-two punch when it comes to reducing stress. They’re both effective tools to improve your mental, physical, and cognitive health (according to this article). Open a window, sit outside, plant flowers, take your kids to the park - get out and allow nature to nurture you.
As the world pushes us to be busier and busier, it's clear that taking care of our body and mind is more important than ever.
● What would it look like to add laughter, sunshine, and a nice smelling candle to your day, every day?
● What would it look like to tackle daily stress with routine massage - a direct route to regulating your nervous system and lowering those Cortisol levels?
I’d love to see you during National Stress Awareness Month and help you prioritize your peace of mind so you’re at your best when tackling that to-do list.
Wishing you a joyful April!