The art of stressing less

Plenty of evidence abounds that nutrition and lifestyle choices impact on our stress levels. Try these ideas for lifting energy and stamping out anxiety.  

Eat more complex carbs

Serotonin, which has a calming effect, can be boosted by eating carbohydrates, says health expert Terry Robson. The best forms are complex carbohydrates from wholemeal food and low GI fruit and vegetables.  

Drink less coffee

Nestled among the list of things to avoid is coffee. Though we often turn to caffeine when under pressure, it can actually worsen anxiety. As Robson explains, this is because caffeine binds to receptors in your brain normally occupied by feel-good chemical, adenosine, which relieves anxious feelings. Likewise alcohol when consumed regularly reduces the effectiveness of neurotransmitter GABA, resulting in increased stress .  

Get a regular massage

"I see massage as imperative rather than any sort of luxury, particularly if people have ongoing stress," says Sydney naturopath Carl Gagnon. "It's not just good for tension, but also for relaxing the nervous system and helping us sleep better."  

Exercise more

Exercise burns off stress hormones, releases endorphins and promotes the removal of waste. We release endorphins when we exercise, feel much more relaxed afterwards, and gain physical stamina as a result.  

Meditate

Take ten minutes at the end of each day to sit quietly and think over the day you've had. Remember the thoughts and emotions you have experienced, and take note of those which created positive results, advises Robson.  

Improve your relationships

Address how your relationships might be having a negative impact upon your life, and attempt to resolve any conflicts. For further help, try Relationships Australia www.relationships.com.au

Work it out

Avoid excessive hours and say ‘no' to prevent becoming overwhelmed. Know your limits and if things are piling up, say something or delegate tasks.  

Sleep

Sleep replenishes our neurotransmitters. Poor sleep patterns can have a cyclic, self-perpetuating effect. Herbs (such as valerian) and relaxation techniques, as well as avoiding caffeine and boosting exercise, can all help.

References available on request