Reduce Stress and Help Reduce Colon Cancer Risk
Stress comes in all different packages. It can come wrapped in three small children under the age of five helping you grocery shop. It can come with a leaky bow on your new roof. Or from your husband, who can’t ever seem to find anything, even when it is right in front of him. No matter the cause, stress has been linked to many factors that can increase your risk of colon cancer.
However, if we really investigate stress, it isn’t the “stress” that causes health issues, but rather the way we choose to handle the stress that can wreak serious havoc to our bodies both mentally and physically. So, put down the cookies. Double stuffing yourself with the entire package of Double Stuff Oreos isn’t helping anyone. It’s the equivalent of drinking that extra glass wine. You wake up with a headache, stomachache and regret.
Poorly managing your stress elevates your blood pressure, heart rate and even sugar levels. Did you know that chronic stress has even been linked to obesity, depression, heart disease, weakened immune systems, alcoholism, smoking and drug abuse, all of which may increase our risk of cancer?
Also, no one is exempt from stress. At some point, everyone will experience the tension and strains of life. The key, however, is how you respond to stress; whether you take a proactive or passive approach will determine the long-term effects stress has on your health.
Here are seven at-home remedies that will help you alleviate stress; maintain your physical, mental and emotional well-being; and reduce your risk of colon cancer. Determine which ones work best for you and incorporate them into your daily routine, so when the stresses of life close in on you, you are prepared!
1. Participate in regular physical activity. Trust me; I know. Finding the time to exercise is as likely to happen as a snow-day in Miami, but exercise is a natural stress reducer. An easy and enjoyable way to release tension and improve your mood is to take a brisk 30-minute walk every day. Find a physical activity you take pleasure in and commit regularly to it.
2. Take a warm bath. Hot water is a known stress reliever as it relaxes the entire body. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil (lavender is known for its calming properties) to the bath water for a relaxing spa-like experience. If you have kids, make sure to lock your bathroom door so you truly enjoy your quiet time.
3. Make time for hobbies. Find an activity that takes your mind off the stresses in your life and carve out some special time to engage in it. You might enjoy fishing, gardening, sewing, reading or scrapbooking. Whatever your outlet, take time to do it!
4. Get some sleep! Stress is often the culprit for sleepless nights, so turn off the T.V. and turn in to bed. Just one extra hour of sleep a night can help alleviate stress. Or you can keep your T.V. on and just change it to the golf channel or home shopping network for a quick way to sweet dreams. Unless you are a shopaholic or golf fanatic!
5. Take a vacation. Distance yourself from some of the tensions in your life by planning a getaway by yourself or with a loved one. Even if it’s just for the day, take a break from your regular routine and enjoy a change of scenery at a slower pace.
6. Avoid excess caffeine. Even though downing coffee, teas and chocolate may temporarily keep you going during trying times, caffeine only exacerbates stress and makes you feel more anxious. Consume caffeine in moderation, or opt for a caffeine-free herbal tea like chamomile or warm milk with honey and cinnamon, both of which are known for their calming effects.
7. Practice relaxation. Take up meditation or yoga. Try out this simple technique: close your eyes, breathe deeply and slowly and think calming thoughts. These methods will improve both concentration and focus and bring about mental relaxation.
In this high-pressure, go-go-go world, stress is a natural part of life, whether you run a household or a Fortune 500 company. So, it is important to be proactive and find effective ways to alleviate the stress in your life, maintain a healthy lifestyle and minimize your risk of cancer. Trust me; not only will your body thank you but the people around you will thank you too. Make your health a top priority and try out some of these proven at-home remedies for stress today.