​

Because of the extreme situations which surround us day to day, our bodies and brains are under all kinds of stress. It’s important that we don’t contribute to overloading our nervous and metabolic systems – but try to give them a hand in feeling calm, sane and healthy while living every day.

Here are 5 tips to keep your body & brain in check during any stressful situation.

1. EAT GREENS

During super adrenaline pumping stress, our bodies are tempted by the evil kind of sugar. Without realizing it, we are likely reaching for more carbs, comfort foods, junk food, breads, sweets, alcohol, coffee, and fruits.

Instead of these sugar-filled foods, the best substitute is leafy greens (or in some cases red). In this case, the more bitter, the better. Greens such as kale, endives, lettuce, spinach, fennel, radicchio, wheatgrass, arugula, asparagus, avocado, lemongrass, rosemary, or cilantro can help give the body and brain what it needs to feel nourished, and beat the sugar rush.

The greens listed offer your body & brain the sugar-base (glucose) it needs to function, the fiber it needs to keep active, and an incredible number of minerals and vitamins which keep the body clean, energized and relaxed at the same time. The human body is a miracle, isn’t it?

2. MAKE SENSE OF SCENTS

As an aroma therapist, I'm now reaching for aromas that ground and center me, and not the ones which cause thinking. That's practically all we do these days and instead, I’d like the energy to flow elsewhere to open the body and keep us balanced. Fragrances like Rose, Frankincense, Ylang Ylang, Lavender, Thyme, Orange, and Bergamont may help you to not only concentrate on your work or chores, but also keep your head and body clear and on the path to calmness.

3. MOVE YOUR BODY

Dance, walk, run, bike, do yoga, have sex! Whatever makes your body move and brings a smile to your face, distracting the body and enjoying it is a great way to keep us sane, especially if we do it in good company :))

​

4. PRACTICE GRATITUDE

Every night before sleep, write at least 3 things you are grateful for about your day. It helps us keep focused on the good things that happen to us which improves our mood and lowers our overall tension.

5. JUST BREATHE

Take 3-5 deep mindful breaths, feeling the way the air moves in and out and how your body moves with each new breath. Count up to 7 or 10 for each inhale, hold, exhale, hold. Every time you feel your heart or mind racing, these deep breathes can make a whole world of difference, especially now.

Vanessa Coriat works as an intuitive integrative healer with channels such as: Aromatherapy, Guided Visualization, Bach Flowers, Mindfulness, Stress Management, BioEnergy Work, Dream Tending; in both English and Spanish. Visit her page here.