Every individual’s life is a mix of joyous occasions, challenges, letdowns and setbacks. For most people, stress has become an integral part of life. A small dose of it strengthens the work of brain cells and improves performance. However, a state of permanent stress leads to heart ailments, chest pain syndromes and high blood pressure. Queens Disc Center, located in Queens, is dedicated to helping each patient achieve optimal wellness. To learn more about the “silent killer” of the 21st century and ways to combat it recommended by Queens experts, check out queenska.com.
1. Indulge in a piece of dark chocolate
Queens Disc Center suggests that treating yourself with a piece of dark chocolate can help lower stress and anxiety levels while boosting your mood. This delicious treat is a source of polyphenols, especially flavonoids, which influence overcoming neuroinflammation and improving blood flow. Dark chocolate has a high content of tryptophan, which the body converts into serotonin, which improves mood. It also contains magnesium, a sufficient amount of which can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
According to surveys, Queens and New York City residents are generally as satisfied with their lives as the rest of the nation. However, they report stress and other mental health problems more frequently compared to people in other cities in America. New Yorkers often attribute their stress to health concerns, work-related issues and the high costs of housing.
2. Try incorporating lavender into your routine
Lavender, with its vibrant purple hue, is a wonderful source of instant relaxation. You can enjoy its soothing scent by breathing in fresh lavender, using lavender oil, or sipping on some lavender tea. Adding 1 or 2 drops to the pillow you sleep on wouldn’t hurt. Lavender offers numerous benefits to both your body and mind, reducing nervousness and enhancing your mood. The gentle floral aroma of lavender brings a sense of calm and serenity.
3. Have a cup of hot tea
Tea has been around for centuries and is known for its healing and health-boosting properties. Drinking a cup of hot tea will calm you down and help you pull your thoughts together. Whether it’s a plain or a flavored one, make sure it’s piping hot. The steam and sometimes the scent are what help you relax. A quality tea extracts rare elements in the plant and turns them into beneficial elements for our bodies. However, it’s important not to overdo it with this form of relaxation. The intense heat of a hot liquid may cause discomfort in the throat, esophagus and stomach.
So, as you know, stress can have a significant impact on the maturation and release of the ovum in women. It is one of the most common causes of miscarriage in pregnant women. Besides, stress can also negatively affect the reproductive function of men, often even leading to erectile dysfunction.
4. Relax in the bathtub
A warm bath can help relieve both physical and psychological tension. The body responds to heat by relaxing. Dermatologists say that soaking in warm water triggers the release of endorphins in the skin. Soaking in a tub can also enhance blood circulation, leading to a decrease in blood pressure and a boost in the cardiovascular system.
Taking warm baths can actually improve your sleep and there’s a scientific explanation behind it. Before bedtime, our bodies naturally cool down to get ready for sleep. In warm water, on the other hand, our body temperature rises a few degrees. After getting out of the bath, the body’s natural cooling process intensifies, signaling that it’s time to relax and rest. Moreover, spending an hour in warm water is equivalent to a 30-minute walk when it comes to burning calories. In a bath, the body has to work harder to balance the temperature while we are immersed in the water.
5. Take a stroll
Fresh air increases serotonin levels, the hormone of joy and happiness. Even a 15-minute brisk walk can enhance your mental alertness and lift your mood. In addition, such a light activity is also good because it does not require a long recovery time. After a walk, you can return to a calm state within just 15 minutes.
Jobs and careers play a vital role in our lives. That’s why millions of immigrants flock to New York City and Queens in particular. However, work can also be a major source of stress due to issues with colleagues, fear of losing the job, low pay, etc. A brisk stroll can provide a much-needed break from these challenges and help clear your mind.
6. Savor a glass of wine
A small amount of good wine can reduce stress levels. Scientists have discovered that such a drink contains resveratrol, a compound that can inhibit those enzymes in the brain that cause anxiety and depression. Wine also contains antioxidants that are beneficial for the skin, immune system and heart. However, it’s important to note that excessive consumption of wine or any other alcohol increases the level of cortisol in the body, a stress hormone.
7. Enjoy a comedy film
When life gets tough, you want to wrap yourself in a blanket and distance yourself from all negative thoughts and news. One great way to do that is by watching a comedy or any other feel-good show. For a classic pick, you can check out the 1988 romantic comedy film, Coming to America, which was partly shot in Queens. The film follows the story of African prince Akeem Joffer, who disguises himself as an ordinary guy in his quest for true love in the United States. With its lovable characters, captivating storyline and unforgettable lines, this iconic film has touched the hearts of millions of viewers.
8. Have fun with your pet
Playing with your pet helps to counteract the stress response by reducing cortisol production. Animals give you a sense of peace and protect you from feelings of loneliness. The companionship and love of a pet is an excellent cure for bad moods because after interacting with animals, the levels of oxytocin in the human body increase. This hormone improves social skills, lowers blood pressure, normalizes heart rate, strengthens immunity, increases the pain threshold and reduces manifestations of stress, anger and depression.
Interestingly, the origins of animal-assisted treatment of mental illness date back to the late 18th century, when the Yorkshire Hospital began using dogs for the mentally ill. Remarkably, during the implementation of pet therapy, the patients experienced a decrease in aggression and the frequency of seizures. Additionally, it’s worth noting that interacting with dogs and cats can greatly benefit children with conditions such as autism, Down’s syndrome, cerebral palsy, oligophrenia and other pathologies.
9. Reach out to a friend
When feeling stressed or down, it’s common to withdraw from people. While alone time can be good, interacting with people is essential for recovering your psycho-emotional health. Reach out to a friend and discuss what’s been weighing on your mind. Sharing your thoughts and getting support may significantly improve how you feel.
10. Change your environment
Sometimes, the environment is the main instigator of stress. If feasible, you should distance yourself from people who evoke fear, hopelessness, insecurity, etc. However, sometimes the problem may lie not in people but in the environment itself. It doesn’t imply you should relocate to a different country right away. Nevertheless, a bit of traveling can help your brain reboot. While traveling, you are bound to encounter new faces. A burst of positive emotions and an inner sense of freedom makes a person happier.