With Holidays just around the corner I wanted to discuss something that effects aging more than the majority of external factors, STRESS! Not only does it cause rapid physical symptoms, such as fine lines and wrinkles, it actually depletes the body’s ability to ward off infection due to a breakdown in the immune system! Crazy right? Let’s dive in and take a look at one of the most significant aging factors and how to reduce it!

Stress can be something that is caused by simple unknown factors such as your occupation, home life, or unexpected loss or grief. Though it is a natural part of life it can have significant backlash on your physical well-being. When you take on too much stress your body reacts with an increase in stress-hormones in your blood stream. These stress hormones, over time, will inevitably lead to not only aging externally, but can age you internally as well. You stop being able to heal as fast and your body is in constant distress.

Stress hormones mainly impact your blood vessels and your heart. This causes cardiac distress and can lead to very dangerous symptoms. When you are stressed for a long period of time this in turn actually decreases your body’s ability to moderate its responses. This can cause high blood pressure and age your arteries significantly. Ever wonder why your doctor is so concerned about your high blood pressure? This is why!

Other serious physical symptoms caused by stress are increased blood sugar levels and a damaged immune system. When you are stressed your body works hard to retain blood sugar in order to be able to fight or flee a situation. This causes your body to be “on guard” 24/7 and most likely increases chances to have Type 2 Diabetes as well as being prone to infection. Stress can seriously impact your health and well-being even at a cellular level.

Though stress definitely plays a huge role in aging there is hope! A few things you can do to release stress and begin to repair the damage done to your body and mind are as follows:

1.  Exercise 3 times per week. This is huge, whether you are walking, doing yoga, or in a high intensity workout it will release endorphins which in turn will decrease your stress levels.
2.  Get Sleep! This is very important, because your body needs to be able to rest to rebuild your damaged cells. Sleep will naturally start to heal you mentally and physically.
3.  Eat well and drink well. Eating superfoods such as kale, cherries, pomegranate and so much more will help to repair your cells and fight disease. These foods are rich in anti-oxidants and that actually will stimulate cell growth especially in your organs, which include your skin! Drinking at minimum 8 glasses of water is very important. Your cells actually lose water with age, so staying hydrated will significantly help that. Also, drinking lots of water will help flush harmful toxins out of your body.
4.  Take care of yourself! What does that look like? For everyone it’s a little different, but make sure you are doing things just for you. Read a book, go to a movie, get a facial. All these things are called self-care and they are so instrumental to your body and mind healing. It’s a wonder how different you can feel by starting your day off with meditation, listening to an inspirational talk or simply planning your day.

So, after reading this article remember, even throughout this busy season take time for yourself. Make sure you step away from stressful situations and remember to relax a little, ask for help when you need it!