Whether you are prone to suffering anxiety or just feeling more stress than usual right now, you’re not alone.  These are uncertain times for all of us and managing stress and anxiety is a key component to both your mental and physical health.  At FitClub, we know that the link between mind and body is integral to your wellness.  There is good news and managing stress and anxiety is possible.

Image

1. Keep up with your health diet and exercise.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that people under stress or dealing with anxiety may report a change in their eating and sleeping patterns right now.  Slipping into unhealthy food choices and sleep makes your anxiety worse.  It may be the last thing on your mind right now, but taking care of yourself with healthy food decisions and a regular, consistent sleep schedule is paramount to maintaining your physical and mental health.  When you feel more stress or anxiety than usual, pay careful attention to how you’re caring for your body, eat healthy meals, and exercise regularly to release endorphins and mitigate your stress.

2. Minimize or eliminate drug and alcohol use.  Drugs and alcohol do not cure stress and anxiety, and in fact, may increase the effects that the emotions have on your mental and physical health.  In fact, as your blood alcohol level rises in fall, feelings of depression may intensify, leaving you more anxious, stressed, or depressed than before you had a drink.  Reaching out to loved ones or mental health providers can have a far more positive impact on your emotional responses to fear and stress.  Caffeine counts as a drug, too!  Too much coffee or other caffeinated drinks can cause a physiological condition that mimics anxiety.  Your heart may race and your sleep may be disrupted.  In times of great stress or anxiety (or everyday for better health), starting your morning with a heart pumping workout instead of a cup of joe can set you up for better physical and mental health all day long!

3. Take a break from the news.  We all understand the importance of staying up to date on breaking news, but taking a break to prioritize your workout is essential for better mental and physical health. When your phone and the news is unavailable, your mind can enjoy the burst of endorphins from a workout without the temptation to sneak a peek at Social Media or a news site.  If you prefer cardiovascular machines, don’t let the television tempt you to indulge in the news.  FitClub offers wifi, making it easier than ever to stream your favorite guilty pleasures while you burn calories.  The endorphin high can help to mitigate your stress and anxiety and your mind has a chance to turn away from negative feedback.  Even a thirty minute break can help to reset your perspective for the long-term.