When we are in the midst of stressful times, there are some simple, common sense things we can do to help ourselves and loved ones stay healthy. Moderate stresses push us to learn, grow and adapt. When stresses are extreme, unusual and/or long-lasting, they deplete and exhaust us. This level of stress puts a tremendous load on our bodies, especially our heart, blood vessels, adrenal glands, brain, nerves and immune system. We are then more vulnerable to “catching” colds and flues, having bouts of anger or anxiety, sinking into depressions, and suffering from accidental injuries. We all have strengths and weaknesses in our bodies and minds. I think of our weaknesses as our early warning system. These parts are most vulnerable to being depleted and show us this by creating noticeable symptoms. The sooner we notice and do things to help, the easier the condition will be to reverse and heal.
Many folks take on health-damaging ways to cope with stresses. These include drug addictions (legal or illegal), smoking, overeating, watching too much TV, emotional outbursts, overspending, excessive behaviors, and numbing emotions. First recognize that these are harmful. Then be willing to replace any with healthful choices and actions.
Here are five components of staying healthy in stressful times:
- Techniques to calming the mind and body – these help us switch from being afraid (sympathetic nervous system) to being relaxed (parasympathetic nervous system). These include meditation, prayer, deep breathing, reciting a mantra, singing or listening to a soothing tune, going for a walk, and taking a brief mental “time out.”
- Time Management – set priorities; organize your day; ask for help when you need it; tackle harder jobs when your energy level is the best; avoid procrastinating; plan ahead and be flexible to changes; do the best you can do at the time; and forgive yourself for not being perfect!
- Relationship Issues – a HUGE topic, but in a nutshell, learn to communicate effectively, with honesty and compassion. Listen carefully, listen patiently, and listen from your heart. Be comfortable with pauses and silence. Much of communication is nonverbal. Show you care by listening with care.
- Exercise – the best form of exercise is the one that you DO! Enjoy the time, try to avoid making exercise a boring task! Vary the type of exercise to include endurance, strengthening, flexibility, coordination, balance and grace. (…as Coach Bill Hudson taught me!)
- Healthful Diet – limit or eliminate the following: caffeine, refined sugars, white table salt, white flour foods, damaged fats, fake sweeteners, and artificial additives. Recognize and manage food allergies. Enjoy eating, eat in a pleasant place and chew your food before swallowing.
For specific nutritional supplements and natural medicines, make an appointment to consult with me! I am available in Los Alamos on Mondays, and in Santa Fe Tuesday through Friday. Please call me at (505)986-1370 to schedule. To your good health – Dr. Wendy Van Dilla.
