June 2014
Summertime and the living is (supposed to be) easy
When we think of summer, it’s the scent of freshly mowed grass, the crack of bat hitting baseball and the feeling of sand in between our toes that come to mind — not stress. But the warmer months can be chockfull of demands on our time. If you’re feeling a bit burnt out between shuttling the kids to swimming lessons, mowing the lawn, and making desserts for the local community or church celebration, consider taking a moment to yourself to de-stress. These methods can help:
Breathe deeply. Taking slow, mindful breaths slows your heart rate and lowers blood pressure. Set aside a few undisturbed minutes to just breathe.
If you’ve never done breathing exercises before, start by sitting or standing up straight. Close your eyes, if it feels natural to you. Inhale slowly through your nose, focusing on filling your abdomen. You want your belly — not the upper part of your chest — to expand the most. Slowly exhale through your mouth.
Want to build up this particular relaxation skill? Consider taking a meditation or deep breathing class.
Enjoy essential oils. Aromatherapy contains the word “therapy” for a reason; certain scents can sooth. Lavender and chamomile are perhaps the best known relaxation oils, but also consider diffusing ylang ylang, frankincense, bergamot, or other essential oils in your living and working spaces.
Essential oils can also be beneficial in dealing with other aspects of the summer months. Find out more in Brianna Hess’ article, “Natural bug-bite, sunburn and allergy remedies.”
Get active. A quick walk on your lunch break or a few good stretches can boost endorphins — the feel-good hormones your body produces — thereby reducing stress. Stuck in the office? Try Hope Zvara’s Fit Bodies move of the month: “Side stretch with chair.”
Eat right. Did you know that vitamin C can work as a stress buster? According to WebMD, “Studies suggest this vitamin can curb levels of stress hormones while strengthening the immune system.” Time to load up on those oranges!
This month’s MP Possibilities Coaching LLC article, “Stop your stress clock” by Kathy Clegg provides even more information on reducing your stress levels.
Looking for other simple ways to incorporate wellness into your life? This month’s issue of Nature’s Pathways has plenty healthy inspiration to share. Catch up on matters of nutrition in Frank Alvarez’s “The skinny on fats: Part 1.” Take “A natural approach to treating migraines” with tips from Serenity Health Care Center. And learn more about what your aura might indicate about your well-being in “What do you know about auras?” and “More than meets the eye.”
Remember: Every little healthy step you take matters!
