How to Reduce Stress in Crisis Moments of Coronavirus
Saint Amit Ray said “If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath.” Engage in very simple, 5-minute deep conscious breathing sessions at least three times a day. Conscious breathing can help you to manage your anxiety response on a physical, physiological and mental level.
Stress is a normal part of life. It is a natural response to an external pressure that disrupts your equilibrium. There are several strategies that be can be effective to help one with or without a mental health issue to cope and navigate through it, while maintaining a healthy mental well-being amid the pandemic.
The World Health Organization emphasizes that preventative care plays a crucial role in fighting the Coronavirus, therefore, it’s helpful to boost your coping in an effort to improve your overall well-being. Pandemics are not declared lightly, and an increase in your stress is actually a normal response. However, not only is stress unpleasant, it can also hinder your immunity.
The three key ingredients that cause anxiety:
- Unpredictability: when we don’t have a clear sense of what may happen next.
- Lack of control: when we believe we do not have direct control for managing issues appropriately.
- Threats to people or things we value.
Here are five simple ways to relieve stress and anxiety.
1. Exercise
Exercise lowers your body’s stress hormones — such as cortisol — in the long run. It also helps release endorphins, which are chemicals that improve your mood and act as natural painkillers.
2. Essential Oils
Using essential oils or burning a scented candle may help reduce your feelings of stress and anxiety. Some scents are especially soothing. Here are some of the most calming scents:
- Lavender, Rose, Roman chamomile, Sandalwood
- Ylang ylang, Orange or orange blossom and Geranium
Using scents to treat your mood is called aromatherapy. Aromatherapy can decrease anxiety and improve sleep.
3. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness can help you to switch on your “being” mode of mind, which is associated with relaxation. Your “doing” mode of mind is associated with thinking, action and the stress response. Spend some time to feel the sensations of your body. Pay attention to what you’re eating can help you to enjoy your food more whilst being mindful. It can also stop you from over-stress, which can benefit your overall health.
4. Reduce your exposure to news and social media
Schedule times to view updates. Plan to check your news sources or social media feeds just twice a day. Make those checks brief. Then otherwise, avoid updates that could be feeding your coronavirus anxiety.
5. Drink enough water and Get plenty of rest.
Multiple studies have shown that a good night’s sleep can boost your immune system and prevent you from getting sick. Quality of sleep for enough hours a night also helps with mood and can reduce anxiety. If you are not sleeping well, seek help from your primary care provider or a sleep expert.
