Stress is a source of mayhem to your body, and it’s no secret that it’s a major saboteur of your skin as well. There are many factors, either internal or external, that wreak havoc to your skin, but reducing stress could be a remedy. Both emotional and physical stress, i.e., fatigue, increase cortisol level, commonly known as the stress hormone. Cortisol causes parts of the body to be inflammed, the skin in particular, resulting in eczema, psoriasis and acne conditions. Unfortunately, stress is part of life, which means your skin is continuously affected, and the only remedy is to manage your stress levels. Here is a compilation of ten amazing tips on how to lessen stress for clearer skin.
Meditate
You do not have to involve a Buddhist monk or prepare a load of incense to meditate. A few minutes of meditation every day goes a long way in clearing your mind and relieving stress. Positive mantra is quite powerful and works by changing your brain’s functioning to increase oxygen intake and reduce stress levels. Choose a perfect spot in your house, probably next to an open window next to trees, and sit repeating calming words such as ‘cool, calm, relax, confident, I am okay, I can do this’ while taking a slow deep breathes.
Try acupressure
Acupressure work wonders just like acupuncture, but the good thing about is that you can do it Yourself. This stress-relieving method entails exerting some pressure at specific pressure points on your body, often referred to as acupuncture points. As a result, you improve circulation and reduce stress. According to experts, the two most effective destressing spots are between the eyebrows and on the earlobes.
Put it down on paper
Our bodies are programmed to reject anything toxic to the body, and stress happens to be unhealthy. The majority of people scream or cry to let it all out what they feel inside, and since you cannot do this at work or home when everyone is asleep, consider writing it down. Keep a book and bed on your bedside or in your car, and empty your thoughts on the book. This elicits a sense of relief, which is a win for your skin.
Get a massage
When faced with stress, muscles tense up, your mood changes, and cortisol is released. With the stress hormone in your system, your skin is bound to suffer changes. A good rub from a massage ease the muscle tension and stimulates the nerve endings in the skin to send a relaxation stimulus to the brain. If you have had a massage before, you can testify that the feeling is the best stress reliever, and its effect is almost immediate.
However, you might not have the money and the time to book a spa appointment, but not to worry as you can Do It Yourself. Place two balls e.g. tennis balls in a bag or sock, then lie on them ligned to the shoulder joint and neck muscles. Rock your shoulders side to side slowly on the balls. You can apply this technique on any other body part that is tensed.
Change your diet
When stress is affecting your skin, it’s about time you stop eating your feelings. Some completely lose appetite when stressed, and some drown in food. Both have adverse effects on the skin. If you are used to eating your feelings, you need to revise your diet. Sugars and carbs do injustice to your skin. Instead, consider swapping that bowl of junk with a bowl of foods rich in Omega 3, leafy greens, or anything fermented. Besides, you need also to increase your water intake to stay hydrated.
Skin conditions such as eczema result from various factors, but stress and food play a significant role. sond offers advice about good food for eczema. You can also visit their website sondskin.co.uk to find out more holistic skincare.
Work out
Working out is a very effective stress reliever. Vigorous physical activity triggers the release of endorphins. The result is a feeling of relief and happiness. Yes, you end up tired and sweaty, but there is no better relaxation feeling than what you get after taking a long shower, using sond skin care products, and eating something healthy after a workout session. Working out also a way of getting rid of the constrained aggression you get when stressed up.
Take deep breaths
Taking deep breathes is an excellent way of clearing your mind, even if it’s for a short while. It is like hitting the refresh button—Master the art of breathing from your belly to improve oxygen circulation in your body. Inhale for five seconds, hold your breath for five seconds, and slowly exhale for the same duration.
Laugh
Laughing triggers the release of happy hormones such as serotonin, which is a mood stabilizer. You get a different kind of glow when you laugh often. You could treat yourself to a series of sitcoms, stand up comedy, or meet some of your comedian friends. With laughter, you are assured of improving your complexion.
Try aromatherapy
Essential oils come in small cans and bottles, but and packed with mighty stress negating punch. Aromatherapy has a significant impact on your emotional and mental state. Consider getting essential oils with an aroma that you love and setting it up in your living space for quick stress relief.
Take some alone time
We often refer to it as ‘me, time, and it has a major impact on your emotional and mental health. You can choose to go for a run, a run, a long warm bath, attend a yoga class, or visit the park. However, ensure that you put away your digital devices such as smartphone or laptop and find a place with no disturbance. You will be surprised how taking time by yourself is effective in relieving stress and clearing your skin.
Besides relieving stress for clearer skin, you could also visit sondskin.co.uk and check out some fantastic sond skin care system and sond products to benefit your skin tone.
