Your head is throbbing like the amp at a Daft Punk show. The blood pulsing through your veins is threatening to reach record heights. You may be so ravenous you feel compelled to eat everything in sight, or perhaps your appetite has completely vanished. The culprit – you’re stressed.
Stress is one of those roguish ailments that is constantly creeping up on us, but its symptoms are so broad, yet often subtle, that at times we dismiss stress as the potential culprit. However, stress is not to be taken lightly. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can wreak havoc on our bodies, our thoughts, and even our behaviors.
It’s important to be aware of the effects of stress in order to recognize when it’s upon us. Stress can cause headaches, high blood pressure, and an upset stomach. It often makes us feel anxious, irritable, or forgetful. It can lead to overeating or undereating, social withdrawal, and conflicts in relationships. If you observe any of these symptoms without a known cause, start by slowing down and taking some time to rest.
One great way to ease the effects of stress is a basic pranayama, or breathing, technique. Start by sitting comfortably with your feet flat on the ground or lying down. Inhale, first filling the lower abdomen, then breathing into the middle lungs, then the ribs, and finally expanding the upper chest. Contract the abdomen and hold the breath for up to five seconds. Now exhale slowly through your nose, letting your muscles completely relax as your breathe out. Breathe normally once or twice and then repeat the steps again at least two more times.
Another valuable yogic tool for dealing with stress is the safe comfort of child’s pose. To utilize this pose, kneel on a mat or carpet with your knees hip-distance apart, toes touching behind you. Place your arms alongside your knees with your palms facing up. As you breathe in and out through your nose, focus on the breath and imagine you are sinking into the ground. Breathe here for five breaths or longer.
If you are more of a “doer” than a “breather” (metaphorically, of course!), there are still plenty of ways for you to relieve stress while engaging in an activity. You may find it helpful to go for a walk or a hike, wash your car, spend time in your garden, listen to music, or perhaps cooking gets your mind into zen mode. It’s important to explore the effects of various activities and hobbies on your mood and energy – only you know what will truly take your throbbing noggin back down to Enya levels.
