Let's talk stress!
A wise woman once told me (Kate Berridge) you cannot pour from an empty cup.
This means that managing stress is vital to our health and well-being, so we have compiled a list of our best stress hacks. Check 'em out:
Stress hack #1, stop the spiral. Do you ever let your thoughts spiral out of control, worrying about things that haven’t happened yet? Guilty! So much precious energy and heartache goes into thinking about all the things that might go wrong. I call it doomsday thinking. It takes a little practice, but when you find yourself doing this, catch the thoughts and remind yourself to deal only with what is, not what your mind is imagining.
Stress hack #2, learn to love saying no. Many of us who’ve struggled with our weight are people-pleasers. Do you ever struggle to say ‘no’ and overextend yourself as a result? If so, consider this: by saying no now, you are giving yourself the gift of time later, to use however YOU want. Time is precious, treat yours as such!
Stress hack #3, delegation. Ever thought ‘it’s easier to just do it myself’ instead of delegating or asking for help? ME. TOO. But when the seesaw between responsibilities and freedom becomes too one-sided, we can become overwhelmed. Take stock of your task load and consider if they are really necessary, then ask for help, or delegate where possible.
Stress hack #4, up your nutrient game. Did you know that when we are stressed out our vitamin and mineral needs increase? Make a conscious effort to keep up with your daily dose of Multi 2.0. You can also give your body a boost of nutrition with more whole, real food, think spinach, broccoli, brazil nuts, fatty fish, yoghurt and dark chocolate! Stress-busting foods, and a few to avoid has the full run-down.
So, ask yourself: what do you need to do today to take care of yourself, so you can take care of those you love? From cortisol to cravings explains the science underneath all of this, and weight loss surgery isn't only about weight loss is worth a read if stress is a constant.