
Regain Your Calm
A stress-free life sometimes seems like a utopia. You have so many obligations and it feels as if you're constantly playing catch-up. Of course, there are stress-inducing situations you can't avoid, but there are ways to reduce or prevent an overloaded nervous system. This is certainly a challenge, especially given the current circumstances, but it's not impossible. Vitaminstore wouldn't be Vitaminstore if we didn't share some tips with you to continue 2022 in a relaxed and positive manner.
Letting Go of Obligations
Perhaps one of the most important tips: ‘letting go of obligations’. Who exactly is making you feel you ‘have to’ do everything? Is it societal pressure or are you setting high standards for yourself? The moment you feel you ‘have to’ do something, your stress levels can shoot up. Take a moment to consider your motivations and why you do what you do. Are you doing something because you enjoy it and it energises you? Or are you doing it because you think it’s expected of you? Remove it from your to-do list if you’re doing it for the wrong reasons. Have you been invited to a friend's birthday but you're not in the mood? Cancel! Are you posting on social media weekly to be noticed but it actually unsettles you? Stop! It can be that simple.
Walking in Nature
In winter, this is not the most favourite activity for some people, but especially now, during the dark days, it is extra important. By walking outside, you treat your body to oxygen and daylight! Together with the gentle movement of walking, this reduces stress and enhances a happy and content feeling through the release of endorphins and serotonin. These are two key ‘feel good’ hormones. Ideally, you should take a long walk in nature, but if you live in the middle of the city, a loop around the park or a stroll around the block is also beneficial for your nervous system.
Mindful Breathing
Breathing, we all do it and hardly think about it. And that's a shame! Because especially in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, incorrect breathing can occur and cause stress. Proper breathing ensures that we get enough oxygen, which is needed in every cell of our body, including your brain where it stimulates brain activity and helps us cope better with stress. Pioneers like Wim Hof have brought attention to the impact of breathing on our health. There are numerous breathing techniques, and we’ll share one with you: the 4-7-8 exercise. A breathing exercise that helps lower your stress hormones and also makes it easier to fall asleep at night. Here’s how it goes:
- Breathe in gently through your nose for 4 seconds
- Hold your breath for 7 seconds
- Exhale gently through your mouth for 8 seconds
- Repeat the exercise at least 4 times
Hopefully, you feel a bit more at ease after reading this short article. Do you need advice or would you like to know which supplements can support your mental health? Our Health Coaches are happy to offer advice via chat or you can find them in our stores.
Written by: Noëlle van Seggelen