The Effects of Stress on Your Body and What You Can Do About It...
“An idle mind is soon lost.”
2020 was a stressful year for everyone. We weren't able to get out as much, socialize, or see our loved ones as often. Some of us are beginning to notice the aches and pains that come with being stuck at home. Even our mind has trouble focusing as we become depressed or even anxious from the same repetitive daily routine of being stuck in our houses. This stress builds in our muscles and not moving as much can lead to future injury once we return to the activities we love.
At Roscoe Physiotherapy we care about your physical and mental health. We wanted to share with you some tips for managing your stress during these difficult times...
Create goals and go after them: Whether it is reading a new book every week or picking up a new hobby you always dreamed of doing. Keeping your mind focused towards a goal is a good way to keep your mind from running away with uncontrolled thoughts.
Focus on your fitness: “Most injuries occur from doing too much too fast, while not doing anything for too long.” Our body can only handle what it normally does. If you’re not moving now, you will be hurting later.
Reach out to an old friend: When the world is moving fast, we sometimes lose touch with an old friend or family member. Now is the perfect opportunity to reach out to an old friend and catch up. Keep a regular routine that involves socializing. Make a plan to chat with them every week. Keeping your mind engaged with conversation and discussing your life with others is a great way to de-stress.
Clear out any negative thoughts: Sometimes our mind has a way of becoming cluttered. It constantly reminds us of all the things in life that may not be going our way. Meditation is a great way to learn to stop yourself once you catch your mind doing this. Turn on some music, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing. Anytime your mind tries to distract you with these thoughts, bring yourself back to your breathing. For guided meditation the “Calm” app is a great place to start!
If you’re having a hard time getting started with an exercise routine or even dealing with any aches/pain from moving less, give us a call! Don’t wait until that minor ache or pain becomes a serious injury. Click here to schedule a 15 minute phone call with a specialist to determine if you would be the right fit for one of our fitness or physical therapy programs. It’s time to get out of the house and get moving again!
P.S. If you’ve got back pain that’s stopping you from being able to keep active right now, click the following link and you can download our free back pain guide to help you get moving again: www.roscoephysio.com/backpain
