5 Tips on How to Cut Down on Stress During the Recession

Stop Counting Pennies and Start Counting your Blessings

As if we all didn’t have enough to stress about in life, now our minds and our wallets have to deal with the recession and the economic problems that have come about. It is no surprise that recent studies and surveys have shown that thousands of people throughout North America are reporting that their stress levels are much higher than they were last year. The stress they are feeling has led to interrupted sleep, an increase in irritability, and a whole lot more fatigue than usual. While stress has been associated with good cholesterol and a longer life in some instances, this recession induced stress is making it extremely hard to cope with everyday life for many people.

Whether you have lost your job, worry about your retirement funds or lack thereof or simply can’t make your monthly mortgage payments, stress can be a killer. The good news is that it doesn’t have to be. Here are 5 tips on how you can cut down on stress and learn to cope with the emotional roller coaster that you may be experiencing.

1-Consider Volunteer Work

While this may sound a little off the wall at the moment, it can actually prove to be an excellent strategy. While you may think that there isn’t enough time in the day, or that you would be better of looking for a new job, volunteering can open doors and ease your mind. Whether you decide to serve food at a soup kitchen, work with underprivileged children, or help set up an event at your community center, the volunteer work can help take your mind off of your current problems and make you feel better about yourself. One of the main problems with stress is that too much of it can shut down your emotions and in a way, close off your heart. Volunteering can make you feel good and help you keep in touch with your emotions. Plus, if you are looking for a new job ,volunteering is a great way to make new connections and network yourself towards a new career.

2-Be Thankful for what you Have

Look around you and realize that things may not be as bad as your mind is making it seem. Your mother may have lectured you about this as a child, but it is something we often forget. Instead of worrying about monthly payments or stressing about the fact that you cannot afford a new car, appreciate what you already have. Whether it is a loving family, a cozy apartment, or even just a part-time job, absorb the gratitude. There are millions of people far worse off in the world. Not that you should take solace in their misfortunes but remember not to forget how fortunate you are. Instead of stressing about your mortgage payments, appreciate the roof over your head. Instead of being bummed out that you missed that last job promotion, be thankful you have a job. No matter how bad things may look at times, your mind has a tendency to make things seem worse.

3-De-Stress with Traditional Avenues

Traditional methods for cutting down on stress still apply. For years we have been told that eating right, exercising, and even breathing techniques can help us out in stressful times. The key here is to realize that not everything will work for everybody. If you really want to calm down and get the stress out of your life you have to figure out what works for you. Whether it is meditation, jogging, yoga, or other muscle relaxation techniques, consider giving everything a try and seeing what works for you. It may seem boring, dull, or even pointless at first, but finding what works for you could benefit you ten fold in the long run.

4-Cut Down on the Drama and Stop Complaining

It is a normal reaction for people to sit around, complain, and feel bad for themselves when times are hard. However while it may feel good at the time to get it off your chest, it just ups the drama and stress over time. Instead of dwelling on the negative and past decisions, switch it up. If you find yourself stuck in a negative conversation or griping, change the topic and try to move onto something else. Surround conversations around future positive changes and ways to improve your life, not around complaining about the past.

5-Comparison Shopping is Great, Comparison Thinking is Not.

When people feel stressed or are upset about what is going on in their lives they often compare the present to the past. This is the attitude that can leave you feeling stuck with no way out. Instead of comparing how much money you used to make to how much money you make now, think ahead to the future. If your bank account is dwindling, don’t compare your balance with your balance for years past. Instead shift your focus on how to improve things. Consider ways to keep saving money and earning more rather than feeling sorry about how much you have lost.

Stress is a natural part of life but it doesn’t have to weigh you down. Yes times are tough right now and things may not be looking up, but dwelling on it does nothing. A positive attitude and positive thoughts can go a long way towards getting you back on track. Don’t compare yourself to others, don’t feel sorry for yourself, and don’t surround yourself with negative people or negative situations.

Life isn’t as tough as your mind makes it seem sometimes. Don’t let stress stand in the way of your goals or aspirations. Keep your head up and your hopes high and things are sure to turn around.

Living Life in Moderation; 10 Bad Foods, Activities, And Choices That Are Actually Good For You

Wine, Chocolate and.....We'll Leave the Rest Up to You

Life is full of tough choices and sacrifices. It seems that every food and every exercise comes with some sort of pitfall. It is more stressful than ever to try and fit the perfect nutrition into your diet, avoid certain foods, and ensure you are keeping on the right track, mentally and physically. With all the depressing news out there, such as possible causes for cancer, side effects of certain products, and the thousands of calories that come with your favorite foods, wouldn’t it be nice to read something positive for a change? Find ways to benefit your health without having to tie chains around the refrigerator or give up all of your favorite foods? Get out from under the negative and see some things in a positive light? Well that is exactly what we are going to do. Lets spice things up a bit, pump up the positive vibes, and look at some foods, choices, and activities that you might be surprised to find out are actually good for you. Read along, relax, and enjoy 10 bad things that are actually good for you.

1- Dark Chocolate

Sure your taste buds may jump at the sight of milk chocolate, but you know that the scale will jump too. The good news is that you can still enjoy chocolate as long as you stick to small portions and dark varieties. The higher the cocoa content is, the more likely it is that the chocolate is full of antioxidants. Better yet, a few pieces of high quality dark chocolate can curb your cravings when it comes to other fattening foods, and even act as an antidepressant. So next time you feel tempted to break from the confines of your diet, reach for a few pieces of this tempting, little treat. Savor it and enjoy it without that feeling of guilt you get after eating a number of other foods.

2- Exposure to the Sun

Skin cancer, wrinkles, global warming, and everything in between have forced us to fear the sun. To be fair, who wouldn’t want to stay inside after reading all the facts, figures, and statistics stating that exposure to the sun can cause melanoma, saggy skin, and pigmentation problems? However we shouldn’t forget the positives that can come from a little bit of time outside. The sun helps your body produce vitamin D, a much needed vitamin, and can cheer you up even in the worst of moods. The key here is to enjoy the sun in proper doses. We definitely aren’t saying you need to head to the tanning bed everyday or that you can leave your sunscreen at home. Just know that through all the bad stuff, the sun can still be your friend.

3- Jolt from Java

As mentioned in an earlier article, which can be seen HERE, studies are coming out all the time in relation to the positive effects of drinking coffee. Regular consumption of coffee can prevent kidney stones, lower your risk for diabetes, and help with memory loss. If you are feeling down, coffee has an ability to elevate serotonin levels in your body as well and give you a quick cheer up in the middle of the day. So stop feeling guilty because you need that kick of caffeine in the morning, just avoid consuming more than 3 cups a day. None only will it leave you shaking like a leaf, but excessive amounts of coffee can wreak havoc on the lining in your stomach.

4- Day Dream Like a Kindergartener

Just because your pre-school teachers screamed at you, gave you detention, and called your parents because you were daydreaming doesn’t mean it is all that bad. The general thought is that if you have time to be dreaming of something else, you are being unproductive and are not focused on the task at hand. It is time to cast this type of thought aside. It is more important than ever to take the time out of your hectic day, dream, and get away, even if it is just for a moment. Need another plus? Many people find that their best ideas come when they least expect it, and when they aren’t really trying to come up with something. So next time you are stuck with a business proposal, get hit with writer’s block, or can’t solve a problem, sit back, breathe and let your mind go somewhere else. There is a good chance that your mind is just craving a break, and the picture of you sitting on the beach doing nothing can give you the rejuvenation you need.

5- Multi-Tasking

Comparable to thoughts about daydreaming, our parents and teachers have hammered it into our heads that multitasking dilutes focus, and is blamed for ADD in many children, and adults. (Admit it, you are watching TV or checking Facebook as we speak) However there are a number of positives that we should come to recognize. Not only can doing two things at once increase overall productivity, but it can also stimulate the brain and energize the mind. So the next time you are working on a project and you get stuck, put it to the side and move onto something else. You don’t always have complete one thing fully before you switch it up. Multitask, give your brain a workout, and feel free to listen to music while crunching numbers.

6- Sipping Wine Like You Are in Paris

We all already know what happens when we mix wine and email. However, before you cast wine aside as a social plague listen to the health benefits it can provide. The nutrients found in red wine actually contain more antioxidants than antioxidant vitamins. Certain types of wine can even keep the heart healthy and contribute to a longer, healthier life. The next time you are picking out wine for a special get together search for one made from the tannat grape. Such wine contains the most procyanidins, which is responsible for preventing heart disease. Just make sure you turn off your phone and put a lock on your email before you get bottle deep.

7- Letting Out Your Inner Geek

Video games have been blamed as being solely responsible for the weight issues in children and teenagers these days. Other games are said to put your brain into snooze mode and even suck out your energy. Truth be told, this is no longer the case. With the creation of remote controlled sensors, motion detectors, and the popularity of the Nintendo Wii, it is getting harder to sit still and play your favorite game. Now not only are video games more fun than watching TV, but they are a lot more active and stimulating. Even the games that require no physical exercise still provide brain stimulation that you can’t get from the boob tube. So pick up your sticks, bond with your children, and get off the couch with an interactive game of baseball, bowling or even boxing.

8- Chomping on Chewing Gum

 
Are you sitting down for this? Recent studies and surveys filled out by dentists are stating that chewing gum actually prevents cavities. This article is singlehandedly dispelling a number of things your mother probably screamed at you while growing up. Xylitol, a sugar substitute that is found in certain gums, can reduce bad bacteria in your mouth and the chewing motion actually stimulates production of saliva in your mouth. More saliva and less bad bacteria mean fewer cavities. Stay away from Bubblelicious and Bubble Tape though and, for the sake of the rest of us, stop blowing bubbles and cracking your gum.

 
9- Having Competitive Enemies

 
This may be something on this list that those with a competitive streak will really enjoy. Expert therapists and psychologists are stating that having enemies and coworkers that compete with you can be beneficial for your health and mind. You no longer have to impress everybody around you or bend over backwards to be everyone’s friend. Speaking your mind, pissing people off, and even getting in small arguments can energize the mind and stimulate your brain. On top of that, a little healthy competition between you and that evil witch you are battling for a promotion with can keep you in tip top shape. If you are competing and trying to one up someone, chances are better you will pound the pavement for an early morning jog or leave the mayonnaise off your salad at lunch.

 
10- Stressing Out

 
From self help books to the intrusive opinions of therapists all around the world, we are constantly told to get rid of stress, relax, and let everything go. However, as long as you do not let stress build up and consume your entire being, a little bit can actually give you a boost. Stress can be a very powerful motivator and spring you into action. A little bit of stress has led some athletes to gold medal performances and probably helped you to meet a few tight deadlines. If you find yourself getting too worked up, take the time to relax and breathe it out. However, be willing to take advantage of the energy boost that you can get during a particularly stressful time.

 
The main thing to remember about all of these 10 bad things that are actually good for you is moderation. Dark chocolate, wine, stress, and everything else mentioned can provide benefits, as long as you do not go overboard. If there is one thing in life that remains true and consistent, it is that too much of anything can be bad. With that said, it is ok to enjoy the things that you love, without all of the guilt. While these are just 10 ideas, the point is that you should be able to get out there and enjoy your life. If you love ice cream, have a scoopful now and then. If your favorite TV show is on Monday nights, lay back, kick your feet up, and enjoy it. Many people get stuck and overwork and over think the process of getting and staying healthy. While a healthy lifestyle is beneficial and does not take a lot of time and effort, it doesn’t have to consume your entire life. We all know at least one life long smoker that has lived past the age of 90, or someone else that has beaten all the odds, even though they didn’t follow a particularly positive lifestyle.

 
Take care of yourself, eat healthy, exercise, but enjoy the little things in moderation. Savor that glass of red wine, take a bite out of a chocolate bar, and most importantly, give yourself a little “me” time.

 
That isn’t too much to ask, is it?

Get Fit and Be Healthy Naturally, Without the Synthetic Chemicals or Diet Pills

Fall in Love with the Benefits that Nature has to Offer

Are you concerned with the synthetic chemicals you take in the form of medicines and tonics in order to keep yourself fit? Are you aware of the side effects these can create and force your body to deal with? If you said yes then you are already on the right path towards a healthier, more positive lifestyle. If you answered no, then maybe it is time to rethink the steps you are taking in order to be “healthy” and look good.

The problem for many people looking to turn their health around is that the solution requires much more than a positive mindset and healthy ideas.  You need to start taking action, think towards the future, and make positive changes that will have an impact on your health for years to come. Now the questions arrive,  how can I improve the situation? Should I stop ingesting medicines and pills altogether? Well if you take such drastic measures you could get yourself into deep trouble. So what exactly can someone such as yourself do to start leading a more natural and healthy way of life? The answer to this question requires insight into the matter. If you truly desire to lead a healthy and prosperous life, then read on, get informed, and get ready to make a change for the better.

The Truth Behind Allopathic Medication

In truth, Allopathic medicines are the inevitable lifelines for all of us because of the miraculous “instant” effect they possess. However, excessive use of such medicines in daily routine leads to a form of addiction that is relatable to other narcotics, but that never gets the same type of attention in the media or via medical journals.

Moreover, the side effects which are caused by such medicines are extremely harmful in the long run. Besides, in many cases patients stop responding to the medicine as their bodies become immune to the beneficial aspects of the treatment after ingesting them for so long. Allopathic medicines are meant to provide relief in a time of urgency but their deployment as daily meals have lead many people to develop other ailments, and weaken their immunity to other diseases and medical conditions on the whole.

Why You Should Consider a Naturopathic Approach

The right approach for many in order to gain relief from ailments and regular stress is to opt for Naturopathy, rather than Allopathy. This is not to say that you should severely alter your medication or make a drastic decision without seeking the advice of a trained physician, but it is beneficial for you to be aware of the options that are out there. Naturopathy focuses on natural remedy procedures and natural medicines. It believes in the body’s natural capability to recover from small ailments.

Our bodies are a magical and powerful thing, and left to their own devices can repair and protect us from medical conditions in a truly inspiring way. This principle of naturopathy is what makes it different from Allopathy, and also helps in strengthening the immune system. On top of this, natural medicines and herbs usually do not come with any side effects. In fact, most of these medicines come from natural herbs and food  and cannot be chemically produced. Thus, naturopathy is an extremely, large benefit to today’s working generation.

Acai Berry and Hoodia Gordonii

This is a big reason that in recent years we have witnessed great commercialization of natural acai berry and hoodia gordonii derivatives. Both of these herbs are bestowed with countless medicinal properties. Hoodia Gordonii is very famous among those people who have ever opted for a natural remedy with respect to obesity. Its incredible appetite suppressing property has changed a lot of lives.

The Acai berry has fat burning, antioxidants and instant energy providing properties which account for the tremendous fame achieved by its derivative products. If you want to feel the hint of success in regards to these two herbs, just Google them and you will find innumerous reviews regarding these two alternative solutions. On top of these two, there are an infinite number of other natural medicines, but to mention all of them is beyond the scope of just one article or even one mind.

The Re-emergence of Yoga

Another remarkable achievement in the area of natural medical cures has been the resurrection of yoga practice by the general population and in the mainstream. Yoga was often looked at as an ancient and spiritual practice and was often cast aside as an outdated fitness regimen. In recent years though, Yoga has become widely accepted by the mainstream population and the benefits it can bring are undeniable. It has shown incredible effects in calming down the rupturing stress that can be so apparent in the lives of many and has been proven to improve flexibility and help in the weight loss process.

Yoga and naturopathy are two incredible ways to remain fit naturally. They are just two examples, and there is plenty more information and even more opinions to be discussed surrounding the matter. However, the point is that it is up to you to look for alternative solutions and opportunities to improve your lifestyle and live in a more natural manner.

Allopathic medications, diet pills, cosmetic surgery and starvation diets do not have to be your first choice, or your last. An informed and committed decision towards choosing a more natural way of life can benefit your body and your mind for decades to come.  Think natural, get fit, be healthy and become aware of all the beneficial options that surround you, rather than always opting for the quick cure or the easiest solution available. An open mind to new ideas and alternative solutions can benefit your life in more ways than you can even imagine.

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Create the Perfect Morning Routine; Less Stress, More Energy and a Healthier Mindset.

Take Time for Yourself in the Morning

There is no denying how tempting it is to hit the snooze button in the morning, or savor that last half hour in bed. However, the truth is that the first few hours in the morning set your mood and your mindset for the entire day. Getting into a sensual morning routine and taking the time to enjoy the early hours in the day are the perfect way to energize your mind, body and soul. Ease into the mornings, take time for yourself, and start doing some little things that will help you skip your way throughout the day with a glowing smile plastered on your face.

 
Gently Wake from your Slumber

That brutally annoying beep of the alarm is often the worst way to wake up in the morning. The sound makes you cringe and can instantly tense you up and put you in a follow mood. Throw out that old school alarm and find a clock that plays soothing music or an elegant sound in the early morning. There are a number of studies that have shown that classical or mellow tunes can soothe your body and lower your heart rate. If you are worried about the tune being too subtle to wake you just make sure you change it up every few weeks. The new sound will ensure your body does not get used to the tune and allow you to sleep in and have to rush to work.

Utilize Scents while you Shower

Lemon, orange, grapefruit and other citrus scents are proven energizers. Invest in a body wash or shampoo that has a subtle citrus scent and allow it to invigorate your body. The mixture of hot steam and the scent will intensify the effects and give you the ability to hop out of the shower, rather than crawl.

Change Up your Coffee Routine

Instead of waiting to grab a coffee on the run, or setting your coffee maker to start brewing once you are in the shower, set the timer to start brewing before your wake up call. Waking up to the smell of coffee brewing and feeling the energizing wafts while you get ready while give you something to look forward to in the morning. The constant smell can also make the coffee taste better as more anticipation is built up.

Before you leave the House

Instead of running out the door, searching for your keys and throwing your shoes on in a mad dash, get ready a little earlier and give yourself some “me” time. Even if it is just five minutes, enjoy the time to sit quietly and center yourself. Five minutes will not make a difference in your morning routine but can really calm your nerves, relax your senses and put you in a good mood for the rest of the day. Turn off your brain, do not think about what you have to do, or what errands you have to run. Focus on the weather, positive thoughts and happy feelings and you will be more alert and more aware throughout the day, and even the week.

It really is simple and that is the best part. Set your alarm a few minutes early, awake to soothing sounds, allow the smell of coffee to waft through the air and utilize invigorating citrus scents. These minor tweaks in your routine can make all the difference. The better you feel and the more in tune you are with yourself, the better you will perform at work, out in public and at home. Treat your senses, give yourself a sensual morning and focus on “me” time. You deserve it.

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