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MENTAL HEALTH TIP
AMP UP EXERCISE,
SLOW DOWN THE SEASON
Try Yoga! The holidays can cause lots of stress, with the
extended family visits, gift-giving and rich meals. Build
INHALE, EXHALE up your mind and body now to fight anxiety and make
If you find your mind and heart racing, and your the holidays more joyful.
stress rising, take one to three deep breaths to help
your body relax. The benefits are almost immediate, ANXIETY IS A serious health concern, according to Rana Munna, MD, internal
according to Lisa Seneker, CPT, Group Fitness medicine physician with Navicent Health. It’s crucial to identify causes of
Coordinator for Wellness Services, Navicent Health. stress.
“My top tip for reducing stress is to breathe,” “It’s hard to separate ‘healthy’ stress, such as that experienced when meeting
Seneker says. “While it may sound silly, it’s true. I deadlines, from the stress that ruins our health,” she says. “Most of us have
recommend trying this technique to handle stress unrealistic expectations of ourselves and our families. We should prepare
in any situation, such as driving in traffic, working or ourselves for the times when families get together—especially around the
handling kids.” holidays—so we can create happy memories together.”
Seneker recommends this technique: Planning ahead and taking actions that make your life better result in less
»» Take three slow, deep breaths. negative anxiety.
»» Pay attention to the sound your breath makes and
STRETCHING STRESS AWAY
the way your body moves as you inhale and exhale.
»» Take your time—don’t rush. Close your eyes, if Although the season can be rushed, taking 60 minutes spread out through
the day to exercise is well worth your time. Exercise is one of the best ways to
possible. defend yourself from stress, especially around the holidays.
»» Assess how you feel after three breaths.
Being active helps boost calming proteins called beta-endorphins, which lead
to improved moods, can help numb pain, and strengthen your body’s ability
to get a good sleep. Proper rest, according to Dr. Munna, also helps your body
balance the chemicals that cause feelings of hunger, so exercise and good sleep
are some of your most powerful defenses against anxiety.
The “right” stress-reducing activity for you depends on what you like to do.
“Every person’s preferred way to manage stress is going to vary,” says
Lisa Seneker, CPT, Group Fitness Coordinator for Wellness Services, Navicent
Health. “Yoga is one way to begin incorporating exercise into your life, as it is
typically slow, mindful and easy on the body.”
No matter which form of exercise you choose, stick with it. That’s the only
way to find out if it’s effective for your life.
“Ask yourself if you’re participating in activities you enjoy,” Dr. Munna says.
“Can you exercise more and make time to practice calming activities to solve a
stress issue?”
VISIT WWW.NAVICENTHEALTH.ORG/WELLNESSCENTER/CALENDAR
TO VIEW A SCHEDULE OF FITNESS CLASSES AND DOWNLOAD A FREE
GUEST PASS TO WELLNESS CENTER, NAVICENT HEALTH.
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