Four-step plan: stay well all winter
We’ve all heard the phrase ‘keep calm and carry on’, but perhaps ‘keep calm to carry on’ would be more apt – as reducing your stress levels can help you dodge illness and increase your energy.
“I don’t think that most people take on board how stress impacts on the body,” says Susie. “There are so many different forms of stress to watch out for – emotional, financial, lifestyle, relationship, workplace and even intense exercise could be a stress for the body, especially if it’s already feeling tired or exhausted.”We often feel that there aren’t enough hours in the day, especially in the run-up to Christmas, but it pays to have some perspective and be kind to yourself.
“Sometimes people think that being busy means they are being proactive. However, you may just be running on high alert and this may be creating an underlying depletion for your immune system. My advice is always to slow down, take a breath and let your nervous system and adrenal glands come into a state of balance.”
Spending some quality time to rest your mind and body is an important way to stay calm – and therefore healthy. “The stress hormone corticosteroid can suppress immune system efficiency, so taking steps such as yoga, massages and pursuing hobbies to reduce daily stressors is likely to positively impact immune response,” says Keeley. Another healthy habit is making sure to meet up with friends or family for a giggle. “It sounds a little silly but laughter may increase the production of antibodies and white blood cells in your body and reduce hormones associated with stress. So not only does laughing help you mentally, but also physically,” says Riccardo.
But if you were just looking for an excuse for an early night – here’s the case for a spot of hibernation. “Maintaining a consistent sleep routine, by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day will help to optimise sleep quality and allow the body to reset, fighting off any potential pathogens you may have picked up throughout the day,” says Keeley.
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Spending some quality time to reset your mind and body is an important way to stay calm – and therefore healthy