6 Ways to Unwind this Spring!

April is National Stress Awareness Month. “National Stress Awareness Month has been held every April, since 1992, to increase public awareness about both the causes and cures for our modern stress epidemic. According to the Mental Health Foundation 74% of American adults have felt so stressed at some point over the last year they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope”. Stress can be damaging to both your physical and mental health. Millions of people throughout the world suffer from the negative side effects of stress including “headaches, high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, skin conditions, asthma, arthritis, depression, and anxiety” (WebMD, 2019). When we are able to relax, we improve both our mental and physical health. Use these six pieces of stress-free living advice to unwind this National Stress Awareness Month!

1. Spend time in nature.
2. Enjoy a conversation with a friend or loved one.
3. Listen to music that makes you happy.
4. Watch a movie that makes you laugh.
5. Play with your pet.
6. Enjoy a cup of herbal tea.

Don't forget to take care of your mental health this April. If you begin to feel overwhelmed practice some of the techniques or give us a call at (469) 714-0006 and schedule an appointment with a counselor who cares!   References: “The Effects of Stress on Your Body.” WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/effects-of-stress-on-your-body Mort. “Welcome To Stress Awareness Month–April 1-30, 2019.” - Official Site, 1 Dec. 2018, stressawarenessmonth.com/.   Written by Aly Bowles - Social Media Coordinator