Does it stress you out when someone tells you not to stress?  Little wonder, that admonition can actually have the opposite effect - especially at the height of a crisis. It has also become quite cliché; so easy to quip, “just relax!” or “chill out!”, but it’s not often backed by actionable steps.  Even if you know on an intellectual level not to let stress get the best of you, it still can be extremely challenging to stop the trajectory when in the throws of a difficult situation. 

Called by many names including pressure, anxiety, worry, tension, trepidation – no matter how it is labeled, it can take a toll and it manifests in several forms. A difficult boss, a bully at school, dealing with a dysfunctional situation, standing up against injustices, grief, loss, trauma, are examples of negative stress.  Positive stress, such as a surprise birthday party, going on a much-anticipated vacation, or the thrill of moving into a new home, is still stress.  

As touched on in the article, The Twelve Pillars of Optimal Health, ongoing, unmitigated stress of any kind can have deleterious effects on one’s well being, including but not limited to digestive complaints, issues with weight, and salt retention.  All types require varying degrees of amelioration.

The below list is just the start of the many ways to attenuate stress.  Some suggestions are passive, focusing on setting a peaceful environment. Others require active participation, but a number of which can be paired with other pursuits.  Even a few minutes of any combination can add up to a world of calm, especially when implemented on a regular basis.

• Listen to soothing music, favoring healing frequencies 

• Light a candle

• Use Essential Oils 

• Sip Herbal Teas

• Take cleansing breaths

• Employ gentle stretches/movements

• Write a letter or take up journaling

• Balance blood sugar

• Unplug 

• Enjoy fresh air 

• Watch the sunrise or the sunset

• Go for a walk

• Practice Earthing

• Give a hug, get a hug

• Have some soup

• Spend time in nature

• Perform an act of kindness

• Replenish electrolytes

• Drink an Adrenal Cocktail 2-3x/day

• Sit quietly

• Phone a friend

• Plan a casual, impromptu get-together

• Traipse barefoot outside

• Watch a funny video

• Practice Mindful Eating

• Soak in an Epsom salt bath

• Work a puzzle 

• Color or doodle

• Get some sleep

• Pray

Supplements can also counteract the effects of stress.  They include but aren’t limited to, Phosphatidylserine, Magnesium (especially magnesium glycinate), Glycine, Vitamin C, Zinc, B Complex, and Ashwagandha.  There is no substitute for eating a properly prepared, nutrient-dense, whole-food diet or actively incorporating supportive lifestyle choices, though.  

If you would like more information on how stress may be adversely affecting your health along with holistic, constructive ways to address it, contact your favorite FNTP (that’s me!) for help.  Be sure to inquire about the wonderful program, “How to Heal the Hurt, Naturally”, which dives into the effects of loss, trauma, and grief along with natural ways to recover from the impact of this most profound form of stress.  

Wishing you tranquility,
Marie Stumphauzer, FNTP

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