Stress is a universal emotion that affects almost every person at some point in their life. The triggers vary and certainly may change as we reach various milestones of age. For seniors, common stressors include health challenges, loss of loved ones, or adjusting to retirement. While aging comes with its set of challenges, stress doesn’t have to dominate your golden years. We’ve put together 6 effective stress management techniques to help maintain a balanced lifestyle.
1. The Importance of Physical Activity
Physical activity is more than just a way to keep fit; it’s a natural stress reliever. Exercise releases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones that act as natural mood lifters (1). For seniors, low-impact exercises like swimming and walking are the most recommended forms of exercise. These are not only easy on the joints but also allow you to be active without overexerting yourself. Before embarking on any new fitness routine, consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and take it one step at a time. Don’t do too much too quickly.
2. Maintain Social Connections
Loneliness and social isolation can have a direct impact on mood and, as a result, can exemplify stress (2). We highly recommend making social networking a top priority in your life. Meaningful relationships offer emotional support, helping you navigate life’s ups and downs. Find a friend to join you on your walks, or play a game of chess. Make it a point to regularly connect with friends and family.
3. Take Up a Hobby
Engaging in hobbies can be incredibly therapeutic. Creative outlets like painting, knitting, or gardening offer a break from routine and can help channel stress into something beautiful and fulfilling. Choose activities that bring you joy and perhaps even challenge you a little. The objective is to divert your mind from stressors and provide an enriching experience. Taking up a hobby is also a form of meditation in that it allows your mind to wander. It can also be a wonderful way to create social connections with other like-minded people who share the same interests.
4. Breathe and Meditate
Deep breathing, mindfulness, and meditation have proven benefits in reducing stress and promoting emotional well-being. These techniques help you focus on the present moment, making it easier to let go of anxieties and worries. This is something that is safe, and easy to do in the comfort of your own home. To practice deep breathing, find a quiet space and sit comfortably. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for 3-5 seconds, and exhale fully through your mouth. Repeat this process several times, focusing on your breath to help clear your mind.
5. Stay Organized
A clutter-free space is a stress-free space. Organization can help make your environment more peaceful and less overwhelming, enabling you to focus better. Use calendars or to-do lists to manage your time efficiently. Keep your living area clean and declutter regularly to maintain a serene atmosphere.
6. Daily Supplements for Stress Relief
Certain supplements can aid in stress management. Adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha or supplements rich in Omega-3 fatty acids have properties that can help your body cope with stress more effectively. Research Verified also offers a range of high-quality supplements specifically targeted towards stress and its causes. These include ‘Calm & Relax’, ‘Anxiety Relief’, and ‘Adrenal Health’. These products offer long-term support to complement the aforementioned effective stress management techniques to ease your stress.
Conclusion
Life’s later years should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, but that doesn’t mean they are free from stress. A multi-faceted approach to stress management can help you navigate this period more smoothly. Whether it’s through physical activity, maintaining social connections, mindfulness techniques, or even the use of dietary supplements, there are multiple avenues to explore for keeping stress at bay. You just need to find what works for you!
