April is Stress Awareness Month, and for many of us, stress has become a constant in our daily lives. From work deadlines to family obligations, stress can have a serious impact on our physical and mental health. But did you know that there are natural ways to combat stress? In this blog post, Dr. Shire, your Midtown NYC chiropractor, will explore some of the top tips for reducing stress naturally!
Stimulate the Vagus Nerve
The vagus nerve is known as the “wandering nerve” and plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including breathing. Stimulating the vagus nerve can trigger the relaxation response and ease anxiety. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing and being present, can help to stimulate the vagus nerve. Additionally, chiropractic adjustments, particularly cervical adjustments, can also stimulate the vagus nerve and induce a relaxed, parasympathetic response.
Top Tips for Reducing Stress Naturally
Laughter
Laughter is a great stress-reducing activity that we can engage in. The brain doesn’t know the difference between a genuine laugh and one that’s created by forcing it. Whether it’s watching a stand-up comedian or sharing a funny video with a friend, laughter can induce the relaxation response.
Singing
Singing is another great way to activate the vagus nerve and reduce stress. Even if you don’t sing particularly well, it doesn’t matter. Singing in your car, shower, or alone can be a great stress-relieving activity.
Exercise
Exercise is an excellent way to reduce stress naturally. It gets the heart rate and breathing rate up and activates the relaxation response. Going for a walk, run, or spending time in nature can also be helpful.
Connect with Others
Connecting with others can be a great stress-relieving activity. Whether it’s spending time with loved ones or participating in a group activity, social interaction can help to reduce stress.
These activities are all free and can be done at any time. By cultivating these habits, you can have them in your back pocket for when you’re feeling stressed or anxious. The best part is that the response time is immediate, and you’ll feel the effects right away.
So, the next time you’re feeling stressed, try one of these natural remedies and see how they can help you combat stress naturally.