Good stress, bad stress
Rising food prices and the global credit crunch mean many of us are now feeling the strain more than usual – but too much stress is bad for our health and happiness.
Research suggests that a moderate amount of pressure can be a good thing – making us more alert, helping to keep us motivated and allowing us to perform better.
But too much pressure can lead to stress that has an impact on our heart health, while the things we do to relieve stress – such as smoking and eating unhealthy food – are as bad, if not worse, for our health and well-being.
Manage your mood
Controlling stress by learning to relax will not only improve your mood, but it's also much better in the long term for heart health. Below are some tips on how to bust stress:
List your stress triggers – such as work pressures or being stuck in traffic jams – and once you've recognised what stresses you out, try to relax in those situations.
Breathing exercises, meditation, yoga or massage are all great stress-relieving activities. For instance, take a deep breath. Allow your rib cage and stomach to expand as you breathe in through your nose. Breathe out slowly through your mouth. Repeat ten times.
Be kind to yourself
Take time out to unwind – even if it's just for ten minutes. Try to read, have a bath or do something else you enjoy. If you work, make sure you take a break for lunch.
Take regular exercise, such as gentle cycling, brisk walking or swimming.
Stop trying to do more than one thing at a time. Put jobs in order of importance and try to plan ahead.
Think positive, eat positive
Watch your diet – try to avoid too much alcohol and to eat healthily. Flora spreads can help maintain a healthy diet, as they're high in essential polyunsaturates, have less saturated fats than butter and are rich in folic acid, vitamins B6 and B12 and contain vitamins A, D and E.
