We all know that the Christmas Season is supposed to be SO awesome. Right? If that's really true, why is it so hard to stay sane? One thing is for sure, I can't solve the great mysteries of life here, but I can show you how to get into the new year with your happiness and humanity intact.
Christmas Shopping, long lines, screaming kids, and fighting for parking spots that really aren't that good in the first place, are some of the not so fine things about Christmas. All of these things on their own really aren't that bad, but when they are all stacked upon each other, they can become overwhelming. First of all there is still hope... its almost over. You can do it, we are almost to January. Until we get to January though, I'd like to show you how to manage your cortisol levels.
Cortisol is the hormone in your body that is released when you come under any kind of stressors. This stress hormone tells your body "Get ready body hard times are coming". When it is first released by your body you will react quicker, fight off colds easier, and help your body maintain good blood pressure. Even though cortisol can be a good thing, too much of a good thing is still a bad thing. Once a high level of cortisol has been circulating in your body for a while, the exact opposite of what it originally did will happen: you will brain will slow down, you'll get colds easier, and in general you will feel exhausted.
Even though cortisol can take a tole on your system, like I mentioned earlier, there are things you can do to minimize the amount in your body. Try the following:
Find something to laugh about: Laughing has incredible effects on your body, and I don't have to tell you, but it feels good too! My favorite way to find things to laugh about is watch funny videos.
When we laugh at something funny, it lowers out cortisol levels by 39%
Switch from Coffee to Black Tea: I know this is near blasphemy but this is actually really good for your system. Black tea that has been steeped in hot water has about 100mg which is roughly the same amount as drip coffee.
Not only does switching from coffee to black tea lower your cortisol levels by 47% but black tea is also linked to reduced chances of developing heart problems.
Listen to relaxing music: I saved the best for last. Music for centuries has been a core part of civilization. It has moved entire nations to laugh, cry, and shout for joy. Its funny how American Idol has done so well for so long, but its because music has a power over us. Heavy metal makes most people feel aggressive, and gentler music like classical, Jack Johnson, or Enya (sorry guys, but after listening to her and after wanting to kill yourself, you will feel more relaxed.
Listening to calming music lowers cortisol by 66%.
At least two of the things here sound like common sense, but if you are intentional about doing these things the quality of your Christmas season will improve; so will the lives of the people around you. So, watch some funny videos, make some black tea, and listen to Jack Johnson on Pandora.
Will Black is a soldier turned family man just trying to enjoy life by making a difference in others lives. After seeing war and the ugliness that humans are capable of, the only life I can see that is worth living is one that aims to help others find true happiness. If you are interested in what I do, check outhttp://www.allthebestofthenet.com you will leave laughing. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Will_Black |
No comments:
Post a Comment