How to de-stress
From Laura Clayton, Brindleyplace Wellness Consultant
April is Stress Awareness Month, reminding us to pause and reflect on the impact stress has on our lives. Brindleyplace provides the perfect environment to de-stress! From waterside walks to exercise trails in our green spaces and free weekly yoga and massage, we’ve got your stress levels sorted.
Stress manifests in various forms and intensities. Whether it’s the pressure of deadlines at work, personal relationships, financial burdens, or health concerns, stress affects us all differently. Understanding its triggers and manifestations is the first step towards addressing its grip.
Mental Health: Beyond its immediate discomfort, chronic stress poses a significant threat to mental well-being. Anxiety, depression, and burnout are among its potential consequences, which all also impact our physical health.
Physical Health: The mind-body connection is undeniable, and stress serves as a prime example of this intricate relationship. From elevated blood pressure and compromised immune function to gastrointestinal issues and cardiovascular diseases, the toll on physical health is profound.
The signs: Stress often lurks beneath the surface, manifesting in subtle ways before escalating into crisis. Initial signs could be persistent headaches, changes in appetite, or difficulty sleeping – early detection and intervention is key. Our body is trying to tell us we are too stressed, listen to the whisper, don’t wait for the shout.
What can help?
What one person may find stressful, another may not. This perception is shaped by past experiences, individual differences, beliefs, and coping strategies. Healthy coping mechanisms include mindfulness and meditation, physical exercise and creative outlets.
Here’s what you can do at Brindleyplace;
Natural Settings: ‘Biophilia’ suggests that humans have an innate connection to nature, being in natural settings such as parks or near bodies of water has been shown to reduce stress levels. Urban greenery like street trees can provide opportunities for relaxation, exercise, and social interaction. Check out Brindleyplace Walking Trail for the perfect routes around local green spaces and waterways to de-stress and soak up the natural beauty of Brindleyplace.
Physical Activity: An environment that promotes physical activity, such as walking or cycling paths, can help reduce stress. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. We have created an awesome Exercise Trail for you around Brindleyplace to help you stomp out stress, before, during or after work. With so many cycling facilities and routes at Brindley, try swapping the train or car for a cycle to work for even more endorphins! One of the best forms of exercise you can do for stress and improving mindfulness is yoga, remember you can book into Yoga every Wednesday lunchtime, for free via the Brindley Life app.
Seek support: Acknowledging vulnerability is a strength, not weakness. Whether it’s seeking professional help, confiding in trusted friends and family, or connecting with online communities, support systems play a pivotal role in our journey towards stress management. Download the Brindley Life app (iOS or Android) to get updates on all social and community events coming up this year!
Remember that awareness is the first step towards transformation, once we bring something into light, we can see it and so make change. Be honest with yourself, foster open dialogue with others and embrace self-care to cultivate resilience. Be the change you want to see!
Feel free to contact the Brindleyplace Wellness Consultant, Laura Clayton, for all wellness questions or advice.
