Has your skin felt dryer lately?
Do small cuts and scrapes hang around longer than they used to?
Are you missing your usual rosy glow, especially around your cheeks and forehead?
Now you’re probably aware that one of the leading causes of poor skin health is excess stress. But did you know that there are some simple steps you can take to drastically reduce your stress levels and improve your overall complexion?
Today, I’ve put together several easy ways you can begin undoing the damage stress does to your skin. By consciously managing and reducing our levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, we can avoid or even reverse some of the damage inflicted on our appearance from years of chronic stress. As well as getting enough sleep and eating healthy food, here are 5 easy ways you can reduce stress to help achieve healthy, glowing, and radiant skin:
1. Take regular walks.
Walking is a great way to manage stress. The movement of your body and changing scenery will help get your mind away from ruminating on thoughts that can seem to be stuck on loop. Getting your body up and active releases endorphins, the neurotransmitters that make you feel warm and fuzzy. And the best part is, walking is simple, effective, and free!
Also, walking does not have to be done at a fast pace. A stroll at a comfortable pace can also promote healthy relaxation.
2. Plan leisure activities.
Leisure activities are a great way to spend your downtime. Research has also shown that when we consciously set aside time for leisure, we’re less likely to commit to other unhealthy behaviors.
So it’s worth taking the time to do something you enjoy. Whether it’s meditation, yoga, playing sport in the park, or catching up with old friends over a board game—regular leisure activities are a surefire way to manage your stress.
3. Hydrate consistently.
Water. Water. Water.
When you don’t get enough water, your whole body grinds to a halt. A well-oiled human body requires adequate H2O to keep it functioning. And not only is this miracle liquid great for your digestive health, it’ll also help you reduce stress by literally flushing out excess toxins, including
stress hormones, from your body. So try carrying a water bottle with you, or try placing one at your desk at work or next to your couch at home. The more you remember to hydrate, the more stress you’ll be able to wash away.
4. Take a hot bath.
Not only is this a great way to relax your muscles, it’s one of the best strategies to undo stress!
Hot baths are known to help:
- Release endorphins
- Increase blood flow to the skin
- Lower blood pressure
- Help you fall asleep quicker
- Relieve muscle tension
- And many other amazing health benefits!
5. Reach out to friends and family.
It helps us to get our thoughts out into words. That’s why a quick chat or meetup with friends can relieve a big chunk of the tension you’re feeling.
Whether it’s time to share your thoughts and seek advice, or merely to be in the company of others—it’s been proven that spending time near loved ones can have positive benefits to your stress. The trick here is to focus on in person interactions. While a call on the phone or few text messages is fine, nothing beats a physical connection in real life.
The more thoughtful, slow, and intimate your interactions are with friends and family, the more likely you’ll receive the full range of positive benefits.
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