Stressed Out Science
There are two types of stress; a quick shock that triggers a fight or flight physiological reaction, and long-term stress that inhibits the body from performing its proper functions. An episode of short-term stress; such as getting a fright will make your adrenalin start pumping and shut down your appetite as you’ll temporarily go into survival mode. On the other hand, long-term stress has a much different effect. Some studies have shown [1] that if the body is in a state of stress for an extended period of time, the adrenal glands will produce a hormone called cortisol, which can increase appetite and motivation (specifically the motivation to eat). Ordinarily, once a stressful period is over, cortisol levels go down and you return to functioning as normal, but if you remain in a state of high anxiety and stress (about your job, getting everything ticked off your list of things to do, taking care of your family, juggling appointments), your cortisol levels stay elevated which can make you more susceptible to gaining weight.
Take a Chill Pill
So, how do you avoid long-term stress? Relax! That might sound like we’re over simplifying it, but really the only way to destress is to do so consciously. Just as you’ve learnt to think positively, establish good habits and eat with intention, so too do you have to consciously take time out. Pausing your busy schedule and enjoying the little things in life is essential to your health and is a huge factor in your ability to succeed on SFD. Relaxing is not optional!
You’re in Time Out
There are loads of different ways to bring your stress levels down. Whatever the activity that you choose, whether its active or indulgent, if it makes you pause, exhale and smile, you’re doing it right! Schedule a few minutes here and there or a couple hours if you can for designated destress me-time and watch those kilos disappear! A few of our fave ways to take a load off include:
- Getting a nature hit
- Eating al fresco
- Laying in the sun
- Taking a Nana nap
- Feeling sand between your toes
- Going for a bush or beach walk
- Taking a hot bath with aromatherapy bubbles
- Lighting fragrant candles
- Smelling fresh flowers
- Practicing yoga or meditation
- Getting a massage
- Listening to soothing music
- Reading a book or magazine
- Getting in some puppy cuddles!
- Getting all kinds of cuddles!
It doesn’t matter how you relax, just as long as you do. Whenever you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed, recognise the physiological effect your mood is having on your body and take action to destress. Be kind, unwind!
[1] Harvard Mental Health Letter, Why stress causes people to overeat, https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/why-stress-causes-people-to-overeat, Feb 2012.