5 tips to naturally relieve stress

April is Stress Awareness Month. You may be thinking, “I am well aware of my stress!” Stress is a normal part of life, something we all deal with in varying levels. Your body is equipped to handle stress for short periods of time, but long-term activation of the stress response can cause imbalance in the body. This can result in a variety of problems, such as digestive disorders, high blood pressure, illness, skin disorders, sleep disturbance, and other problems. Natural remedies and lifestyle changes can calm frazzled nerves, and help restore balance. Do something good for yourself by utilizing these five tips to relax and reduce stress levels: q Make Time for Exercise. Exercise is a critical part of stress reduction and overall good health. It helps you look better and feel better, by working out some of the nervous tension that may be built up during periods of stress. Something as simple as a short walk out in the fresh air can ease tension and allow you to handle stress better. Try deep breathing and yoga exercises during the day and before bed to help you stay calm. r Nourish Your Body. Stress eating is not uncommon, but it seems we are more likely to choose unhealthy foods when we are stressed. Try shifting the focus to foods that are nourishing and that provide nutrients that can help combat stress. Try to get these nutrients each day:

✔ Magnesium to calm and relax muscles: nuts, seeds, dark chocolate, avocado, whole grains.

✔ Omega 3s to support mood: avocado, seeds, salmon or other fatty fish.

✔ Vitamin C to support adrenal gland function: citrus fruit, berries, kale, red and yellow peppers.

✔ B Vitamins to support nerve health and function: eggs, leafy greens, legumes.

If you are not eating plenty of these foods each

Nature’s Way

Ashwagandha Gummies

Reduces daily stress.*

A traditional herb long used for its adaptogenic properties.*

Delicious berry flavored gummies.*

Paragon Plus™ Stress-B 100

High potency B complex with vitamin C. May provide support during times of stress.* day, consider adding a supplement during periods of extended stress. s Be Good to Your Gut. Since scientists have discovered the second brain—neurons in the intestinal tract that communicate like neurons in the brain—there has been increased interest in this gut-brain connection. What research has found is that the gut microbiome affects everything including energy, weight, mood, and sleep. The gut microbiome produces many of the same neurotransmitters as the brain, including mood stabilizing serotonin and calming GABA. Take care of your gut with prebiotic fibers and probiotic-rich cultured foods, like yogurt, kefir, and kombucha. t Adapt with Adaptogens. Adaptogens are herbs that can increase resistance to stress and have a normalizing or tonic effect in the body. They help reduce the negative effects of stress on

Continuous release formula for maximum absorption.

Probulin Total Care Mood

Probiotic

The ultimate in mood support.* Supplies 11 scientifically studied probiotic strains.

With prebiotics and postbiotics, plus saffron and L-theanine to support healthy mood and stress levels.* the body. These herbs not only help you handle stress, but also help maintain energy levels. Good adaptogens include ashwagandha, rhodiola, and ginseng. u Get Good Sleep. Getting a good night’s sleep helps with overall stress reduction, along with helping to restore the body. Create a bedtime calming routine. Turn off devices an hour before bed and cool your room. Sip a cup of hot herbal tea, or take a hot aromatherapy bath before bed to relax the body and calm the nerves. If you have trouble sleeping, try a gentle, natural sleep aid containing the mild sedative herb valerian.

While you cannot avoid stress, stress does not have to control you. Take care of yourself when stress is prevalent in your life. Maintaining good health and well-being will also help you stay calm and stress-free. ●

Carlson

The Very Finest Fish Oil Just Peachie

Promotes cardiovascular, cognitive, and joint function.* Supplies 1,600 mg of omega 3s per teaspoonful.

From wild caught and sustainably sourced Norwegian cold-water fish.

BY KELLI ANN WILSON AND LYNN TRYBA