In this fast-paced world, we find it takes some effort to slow down. Everyday stressors are the norm, and although some stress is good, too much can hurt the body and mind. Stress can start to take a toll on your health if you’re not careful. Below are tips that help reduce stress, and have the added benefit of being heart-healthy, as well!

1. Exercise
   Exercise is an excellent way to relieve stress, but is also great for strengthening the heart, boosting metabolism, and improving circulation! Try getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day, including some activities that can get your heart pumping. Exercise will reduce your stress and improve your overall health – short-term and long-term!

2. Give Yourself a Break!

   It is easy to forget to give yourself time to relax when you’re busy taking care of others. Schedule a daily time devoted to yourself to do solely what relaxes and makes YOU happy. Go for a walk, read a book or article, do something creative, or take an herbal epsom salt bath. These activities can calm your spirit and clear your head.

3. Meditate

   Meditation and deep breathing are powerful tools to slow your body and mind down. Try meditating for even just five minutes a day. Practice deep breathing to help lower your heart rate. When you’re feeling overwhelmed and handling too much, meditation is a great way to slow down.

4. Break Your Habits
   Consistent stress can lead to unhealthy habits such as excessive drinking and smoking. Although you may feel these substances help you cope in the moment, the long-term damage far outweighs the short-term benefits. Both smoking and alcohol can cause heart damage. Turn to alternatives if you’re reaching for a cigarette or a drink, and reach out to those close to you to help you break the habit. Your acupuncturist can help you or a loved one quit smoking with an acupuncture smoking cessation protocol… which brings us to our next tip:

5. Acupuncture

   Acupuncture is an effective medicine that can help improve heart health as well as lower stress. By the specific placement of needles on acupuncture points, the treatment works to help move the entire body back to optimal health. Acupuncture can help reduce blood pressure, decrease stress, and improve sleep. Currently, The Fountain is hosting *free* stress-reducing mini treatments with Acupuncture Happy Hour every Wednesday from 4pm-8pm. Stop by our very comfortable spa environment to release some endorphins naturally with acupuncture, and help remind your nervous system to relax. Schedule here: www.fountainacupuncturecary.com/schedule 🙂

6. Massage Therapy

   Massage therapy is another alternative treatment that is beneficial in lowering stress. The treatment has been shown to reduce heart rate, lower blood pressure, and increase blood circulation. Through manual manipulation, massage can relax not only the body but the mind, as well. Roman Skin and Body Care, located downstairs from The Fountain, has two excellent licensed massage therapists to cater to your massage needs.

7. Let Go

   It can be hard to accept that things in life don’t go exactly as planned. Practice letting go of what you can’t control and accepting that the future is unknown. It is easy to stress about the future. Reminding yourself to live in the moment takes effort, but can be infinitely fruitful.