Our bodies were designed to handle stress. But putting your body under constant stress without taking time to relax and regenerate creates adverse health effects in 43% of all adults. Some of those problems include headaches, stomach issues, high blood pressure, insomnia, chest pain, and overall heart problems. It’s no wonder stress is called the “silent killer.” Below, we compiled some of the best ways to deal with stress and suggest some ways that cannabis may help you relax.
Exercise
Most people know that exercise boosts stress-relieving endorphins. Even so, for many people working out just seems like a lot of… well, work. Try to find an activity that you enjoy, be it yoga, swimming, dancing, or running. Even a brisk walk can help you let go of some of the daily stress you’ve been holding. Cardio is a great way to clear your head of negative thoughts and anxiety.
Limit Stimulants and Depressants
A few cups of coffee to grind through work, cookies to get you through that afternoon slump, and a couple of drinks at happy hour may seem like a great idea to get you through a stressful day, but they are actually putting more stress on your body. Caffeine and refined sugar act as stimulants, and alcohol is a depressant. All of them can leave you feeling irritable and tired. Try eating small, well-balanced, nutrient-rich meals throughout the day.
Practice Self-Care
Practicing self-care can mean something different to everyone. Whether it’s allowing yourself to clear your head on a lunch break, going on a run after work, cooking, or taking an extra-long bath, do whatever it is that allows your mind and body to relax. We worry so much about the people around us, being the best boss, coworker, mom, or partner. More than ever, people are swapping their wine for cannabis at the end of a long day. A bath and a 4:1 gummy? Sign us up!
Sleep More
Sleep allows your body and mind to rest and recover. It's essential to reducing stress levels. Most healthy adults need 7-9 hours of restful sleep. Unfortunately, according to the National Institutes of Health, the average adult sleeps less than seven hours per night. Need better sleep? Try these things:
- Establish a schedule of when you go to sleep and when you wake up, try to be consistent (even on weekends).
- Create a relaxing routine like reading, listening to soothing music, or a hot bath (hello, self-care).
- Don’t use your phone or electronics before sleep. Blue lights from the screens on our electronics delay the release of sleep-inducing melatonin and increase alertness. If you have to use your device, make sure you switch to night-mode that warms up the light on the screen.
- Reach for cannabis.