Amanda Sweener
One way that I have found reduces stress immensely is avoiding substances such as alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, etc. and to have a well-balanced diet. What we put into our bodies does not only affect our physical appearance, but it also affects us mentally. Many people tend to resort to substances in order to control stress and anxiety, but it is only masking it for that moment and will increase stress and anxiety more once you’re not under the influence. It really does more damage in the long run and once cutting back, it makes it harder to reduce stress naturally until your body and mind no longer relies on that substance. I used to be stress free 24/7 until I started drinking alcohol and the more I had done so, the more irritable I became and the more negative I felt. Same with caffeine. I have taken breaks from caffeine to really notice the effects anytime I have stopped and then started drinking coffee again on the regular. A lot of people don’t see caffeine as a substance or something that really affects you but it has caused my anxiety to spike, it has made me feel as if I’m in fight or flight mode when I have consumed too much and when trying to cut back, I was extremely irritable. From my personal experience, I definitely was living a healthier life, mentally and physically, before I ever dabbled in these substances. After seeing the damage it has done and the stress it has caused, I have cut back and also switched to a healthier diet such as eating many fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids and lean meat in order to get the nutrients my mind and body need in order to feel good. So, my tip is to take care of your mind, body and soul by nurturing yourself with things that are only going to benefit you and make you feel wonderful and less vulnerable to being stressed out so often. Also, if you haven’t started drinking alcohol, smoking nicotine, eating or drinking caffeine, try your best not to. You will feel so much better and you will definitely live a healthier life without them.
