If You Are Stressed, Don't Do These Things!

We all get a little bit stressed, and we are often told about things to do to relieve stress….but just wait, here are 10 things that you may be doing that cause the stress to be more intense!!
1. Do not obsess over stress, focusing on stressful thoughts just makes them worse. Neuroscientists say it reinforces the “neural pathways” for the thoughts, making them get more and more intense.
2. Not taking time off. After a stressful situation your body needs a break to let it recuperate for the next challenge. So take a breather!
3. Giving in to cravings. Do not look for that “comfort food” to make you feel better. When you give in, your serotonin levels quickly elevate and you feel better for a little while. But then when the levels fall you feel worse an have even more cravings!
4. Venting Emotions…we were always told that this was a good thing to do. However, sharing negative things helps keep the negative emotions alive.
5. Not sleeping enough will increase stress, and is known to be an accelerator to mental illness. So make sure to sleep!!
6. Surrounding yourself with bad news does not help stress or anxiety. If you know you are going to be going through some tough times, stick to the happy movies.
7. Seeking stimulation is not a great idea when stressed. All the stimulation, like caffeine and driving fast can amplify stress.
8. Don’t play video games! They may be fun, but especially violent games can put you in an anxious state of mind.
9. Make sure not to isolate yourself. When people are stressed they tend to stay by themselves, however as humans we need interaction. Your friends and family are the ones that you need to support you.
10. Don├óΓé¼Γäót be lethargic. Stress hormones flood the body getting it ready for physical activity. Moving your body helps you “discharge” those hormones and reset yourself to a relaxed state of mind. So when you are feeling anxious or stressed, go to the gym!
Make sure to remember these common mistakes and make a change.
Stress-free is the way to be!
[Image via Daniel Deme/ WENN.]