Four Ways to Look and Feel Your Best Every Day

August 13, 2018 by Leave a Comment

 

how to reduce stress

Since two million years ago when our ancestors were born in Ethiopia’s Ledi River Valley, people have experienced stress.  Over the years, it has been determined from our ancestors that the number one way to look and feel better is to relieve the stress.  Unfortunately, many people do this by self-medicating either with alcohol, street drugs or pharmaceuticals.  But, there are other ways to relieve stress that won’t damage the body.  For example, raising your self-esteemed will make your body function more efficiently and naturally.  Here are 4 simple tips for that will help you feel your best everyday:

 

 1. Work Out 

 Our first tip on how to reduce stress is to exercise vigorously for an extended period.  Good things happen to your body when your exercise.  Your brain produces endorphins – hormones that are analgesics, which relieves stress.  Additionally, the oxygenated blood from your workout brightens your skin.  Furthermore, it lowers cortisol levels which makes your skin more elastic .  It also helps to reduce wrinkles and gives you better muscle tone and reduces fat.  A good workout is the best bang for your buck commitment. 


2. Smile Every Day 

Our second tip on how to reduce stress is to smile.  As Mother Theresa once said: “Peace begins with a smile.”  There is research data that supports the theory that even if you’re in a bad mood, if you force a smile it can actually make you feel happier.  It only takes a brief smile to experience this benefit.  One expert, Dr. Javod K. Gol, at Precision Dentistry in Columbia, MD, states: “Your smile is the very first thing that people notice about you. A bright and confident smile makes a great first impression and naturally makes you more attractive personally and professionally.” 

Psychologists say that a person who is smiling seems more friendly.  Thus more trustworthy than a person who is frowning.  There are also psychological studies which support the concept that the habitual act of smiling helps the mind move into more positive thinking patterns.  All you have to do is remember that we all live in a world of endless possibilities – so why not smile about it?

 

3.  Protect Yourself  From the Sun 

Another tip on how to reduce stress and have healthy skin is to protect yourself from the sun.   Although that suntan may seem like it makes you more sexy and attractive, it’s also drying your skin.  Too much sun makes it less elastic and, therefore, more susceptible to wrinkling.  You should make sunscreen application a daily habit. It is especially important to protect your skin during the summer months.  The sun is high and more intense for longer periods of time during the summer.  I

It’s also a good idea to cover up as much of your body from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet radiation during 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.  Rays are the most powerful during that timeframe.  Being cautious also protects you from the hazards of melanoma, a form of skin cancer.  Melanoma occurs when pigment-producing cells, known as melanocytes, mutate and become cancerous.

 

4. Get the Proper Amount of  Sleep 

Our last tip on how to reduce stress is sleep.  The best way to de-stress and feel better is to make sure you get a good night’s sleep.  Not only does sleep help you manage anxiety, it also enhances your mood.  Additionally, it strengthens your immune system, increases energy levels, improves memory and expands cognitive functioning.  If you’re injured, sleep periods are when the body produces hormones, which helps it repair and heal itself.   As a result, sleep is an important component of recovery.  Also, you produce more white blood cells while you sleep.  White blood cells help strengthen your immune system.  So, sleep provides fundamental needs for your body.  Most importantly,  make sure you get plenty of it.

 

Filed Under: Empowerment, Women's Health Tagged With: , ,

How To Eliminate Stress As a Parent

April 21, 2017 by Leave a Comment

You’re probably used to feelings of stress and pressure as a parent. There is always something that needs to be taken care of, and everyone looks for you to sort it out.  And then there are the specific occasions that seem inevitably and unavoidably stressful whenever they arise. Here’s a few parenting tips on how to eliminate stress as a parent. 

 

how to eliminate stress

 

 

Make Special Days Memorable

The perfect example of this is your children’s birthday parties.  Kids need to be entertained and kept safe.  At times, this can be a nightmare.  Turn your nightmare into a dream, find the right kid’s birthday party place, schedule the day, and have fun.  Once you have that accomplished, then make the day memorable by making the party room unique and special.  It will become an  unforgettable day for your child and you.

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Plan for Your Party Guests and Chaperones 

Any situation in which you have to deal with lots of children can be stressful. You can address this by making sure that you have enough adults around to keep the kids in line.  Having chaperones to assist with the children will certainly make the day a lot less stressful for you.  Enlist assistants whether it’s for a birthday party, play date or a sleepover.  Remember, there is no shame in asking for some help.

Always Plan Ahead

Planning will help when you’re trying to enjoy time with your kids.  It will also help avoid stress.  Managing kids is always easier when there is structure in place.  You should know what you’re going to do and how you’re going to do it. That way, you will remain in control of the situation.  And your kids won’t take advantage of the chaos by causing even more trouble for you. You’ll then be able to make sure that you all enjoy the day.

Accompany Something Rough with Something Smooth

Trying to get your kids to do something they don’t want to do is always a struggle. For example, taking them to the dentist or even simply getting them to school in the morning can be difficult at times. When there is something rough that you have to put your children through, counter it with something smooth afterwards. By this I mean you should do something positive for your kids.  They will remember it fondly after they have to do something they don’t like. When they’re young, this can be really helpful. So, give it a try.

We hope that you have found our tips on how to eliminate stress as a parent helpful. Try implementing a few at your next event or into your daily routines when possible.

Filed Under: Health Tagged With: , ,

A Working Mom’s Guide On How To Be Happier

March 9, 2016 by 1 Comment

As mothers, we often work hard to make sure everyone around us is happy. We want our kids to be happy, as well as our spouses and our employers.  But, how often do you do things that make you happy?  Your happiness and well-being affect the rest of your family.  Just because we’re mothers, doesn’t mean that we can’t take time for ourselves.  Working mothers need to make an extra effort since they are pulled in multiple directions every day.  Today, we want you to start empowering yourself to live your best life.  Here are a few tips on how to be happier:

 


moms guide to happiness, relaxation, self-esteem, building confidence 

 

 

 

  1. Schedule Everything

Invest in a daily planner that you love, or just really utilize that smartphone, because planning out your week will really help you be happier in your day-to-day life. Don’t just use your schedule as a way of staying on task, but write down things you want to accomplish each day, like spending time with your kids. It may seem weird to check things like that off your to-do list, but you won’t view it as a chore.

  1. Get in Sync With Your Spouse

Compare schedules with your spouse and make sure you are both taking the time you need for yourselves. Trade off kid-watching duties so you can go grab some caffeine at Starbucks by yourself and he can hang out with his friends. You both need time to do things that are important to you. In the end, you will both be happier.

  1. Make the Most of Your Commute

We are happiest when we are productive, both at work and at home. Don’t waste your commute to work, especially if it’s long. Use it as time to listen to podcasts, audiobooks or even learn a new language. You may find a new hobby that you love and make the most of time that is precious.

You can also use your commute as a way to cool down after a long day at work by going through pros and cons of the day. Also, try getting into the mindset of going home after work. When you get home after working all day, you should be present with your kids. So instead of thinking about all the things you need to get done at your job, think about how you can spend quality time at home with them.

  1. Learn How to Say No

No could become the most important word in your vocabulary. If you feel like you didn’t spend enough time with your spouse and kids this week, feel obligated to drive them to birthday parties or play dates. Don’t feel guilty if you have to tell other no, even if they don’t like it. Your family is what is most important.

 

empowerment tips

 

  1. Make Time to Exercise

We all know that exercise can boost your mood and make you feel better about yourself. Carve out at least 10 to 15 minutes each day to get some exercise. Take a walk, pop in a workout DVD or just do some pushups and sit ups each night. You will feel happier and your body will thank you for it.

  1. Plan Intentional Time With Your Spouse

If you want to be happier, make sure your spouse is happy, too. Weekly or biweekly date nights are a must for a married couple. Be intentional with your time together. Turn off your cellphones and don’t talk about your kids’ schedules. Have fun!

  1. Don’t Compare Yourself With Other Moms

Most importantly, don’t compare yourself to other moms because it will just drag you down. It isn’t fair to you and it isn’t fair to those moms, either. You may think they have it better because they get to stay home with their kids, but you don’t know the whole story. Instead, know that you are setting a great example of a hardworking parent for your kids. Know that you are helping to provide for them and don’t take the time you get with them for granted.

Your happiness depends on you making time for yourself and for your family.  Learn how to be happier, and you will live a more productive life.  You may also like 6 Tips to Build Your Self-Esteem.

 

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Jennifer  Landis is a hard-working, distance-running, yoga loving mama, health journalist, and blogger. Find more from Jennifer at her blog, Mindfulness Mama or follow her on Twitter @JenniferELandis.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Confidence, Empowerment Tagged With: , ,

5 Full Body Massages To Try

September 2, 2015 by
massage therapy, full body massages, massages, Swedish massage

Do you find yourself tied in knots, stressed out, joints and muscles aching at some point through out the year?  I can relate, life can be stressful and stress can wreck havoc on our minds and bodies. Stress can manifest itself in many ways, which is why we need to pay attention to our bodies and deal with it when it appears.  .

For the past few years, I have treated myself to a full body massage for my birthday. I swear by it. They relieve stress and work out the kinks. I literally leave the spa like a wet noodle. You are so relaxed, it is advised that you not drive after your session. If you have never had a full body massage, you must add this pleasure to your list. Ask your husband or significant other for a gift certificate for your birthday, Christmas or just because. Every woman deserves to be pampered at least once in their lifetime, but be warned once you start you will want to continue the service.  

Here are the massages offered at the spa that I use.  I have had 3 of the 5 listed, the Swedish, Hot Stone and Deep Tissue. I love the Swedish and Hot Stone, but I encourage you to research and make a decision on what you think you would enjoy:   


1.  Swedish –  It’s the most sought after and is used to relax the entire body. The massage therapist uses long strokes to increase the level of oxygen in the blood while decreasing toxins and improving circulation. It eases tension as well. 

2.  Prenatal –  These are great for the mother to be. The massage therapists focuses on decreasing swelling in the arms and legs, and relieve aches and pains in muscles and joints.

3.  Hot Stone – It is amazing what hot stones can do. They literally melt the stress away, eliminates stiff muscles, increases circulation and your metabolism. Because the hot stones relax muscles, the masseuse is able to do a deep muscle massage. 

4.  Deep Tissue – The Deep tissue massage is similar to the Swedish massage. It focuses on deeper pressure with the goal to be the release of chronic muscle tension. This massage is known to drop the blood pressure and boosts your mood and relaxation. 

5  Reflexology – The massage therapist will use the traditional Swedish and sports massage techniques starting with the hands and than moving to the feet, calf, and upper leg area. This is great for athletics or those who have problems with foot or ankle pain.  It also reduces stress. 

The spa that I use also offers packages for couples, girlfriends, mom and daughter/son or mom and granddaughter/grandson. Make it a family affair or  a day of intimacy, you won’t regret it. It will leave you wanting more and more.

Filed Under: Self-Improvement Tagged With: , ,

11 Tips to Reduce Holiday Stress

November 13, 2014 by

 

holiday stress, Thanksgiving


Gobble Gobble!  The holidays are around the corner and holiday stress levels will start to rise. Thank goodness we no longer head out to the woods to catch our turkeys, pound corn or cook on open fires.  We already have enough things to stress over like what will be on the menu, who’s coming to dinner, what size turkey to buy, who should sit where and the list goes on. 

The holidays can  be a joyous time, but they can be overwhelming at times too.  To avoid unnecessary stress, I use the following tips to reduce holiday stress in my home: [Read more…]

Filed Under: Life-Thoughts Tagged With: , ,

6 Tips To Deal With Stress and Anger

May 28, 2014 by

How do you deal with your stress and anger?  Do you keep your monster hidden?  Women have been groomed to be lady like.  We’ve been taught to hold things in and take care of our family and home. Suck it up! Pray about it or just forget it.  We’re the backbone, the care givers, we make it work. Who has time to think about the stress or anger that we’re feeling, right?

Furthermore, if we do take the time to get in touch with what we’re feeling somebody wants sex, a cookie or Peppa the Pig turned on. We go to bed exhausted, thrive on a few hours of sleep and get up the next morning and do it all over again.  It leads to stress and more stress.  And, when we finally explode or end up sick because we haven’t dealt with anything.  W’re looked at as if we’re crazy.  Nobody saw it coming, because it’s our job to hold it down and together.  Today, I’m sharing empowerment tips on how to deal with stress and anger.

 

how to deal with stress

 

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Also, anger and stress can cause hair loss, weight gain, weight loss, it can lead to depression and a host of other health issues.  Ladies, we must learn how to deal with stress and anger before it starts affecting our health.  So, don’t pretend that you don’t feel angry, stressed or get overwhelmed at times. Parenting and managing a home are huge responsibilities.  It gets the best of us at times and we should feel no shame.

Here are a few tips on how I deal with stress and anger:

Exercise – Walking or hitting the treadmill is a great way to work off stress and anger.  A walk through the neighborhood, park or your apartment complex is good.

Remove yourself from people and situations that are not healthy – You know who and what I’m talking about. Lets face it, some people can be toxic. They complain all day and all night.  There’s no happiness within and there never will be.  Run as fast as you can in the opposite direction.

 

how to deal with stress

 

Accept that you can’t help everybody – There are many people in need, unfortunately we can’t help them all.  I’ve learned that the world is full of people who are down on their luck, but there are also people who don’t want to help themselves.  They would rather have others work and take care of them.  Place your focus on you and your family.

Get proper rest – I’ve found that I don’t need as much sleep as I used to.  Imagine that.  I used to need at least 8 hours, but I can function on 6 or 7 now.  I need that extra hour to blog!

Find a hobby – Spend a few hours a week working on it your hobby.  I unplug and turn to scrapbooking, gardening or reading a magazine or book. I also enjoy playing games on-line.

Discuss your feelings –  Share your feelings with the person you’re angry with or discuss it with your husband, significant other or a girlfriend.   Don’t ignore your stress or anger.  Talk about it and leave it on the table.  Sometimes just having someone to listen is all we need.

Finally, what techniques do you use to de-stress or release anger or frustration?  Most importantly, we hope that you will incorporate our tips into your life.

Filed Under: Women's Health Tagged With: , ,