April is not only the month of Easter with its playful pranks and unpredictable showers but also marks National Stress Awareness Month. Rather than focus on stress symptoms and their adverse effects, we gathered insights from some of the most successful women, ranging from nutritionists to neuroscientists, to share their valuable strategies for stress relief.
1. Monitor Your Stress Levels
Chloe Thomas, an inspiring personal trainer, shares her journey of staying motivated through her dynamic social media platforms and personalized coaching sessions.
Chloe emphasizes that even with the endorphins from her workouts, stress impacts her life. She utilizes smart tools to track her stress levels.
“The Oura Ring has been a game changer,” she reveals. “It monitors my HRV (heart rate variability), resting heart rate, body temperature, and sleep patterns, providing critical insights into my overall well-being.”
“During high-stress periods, it’s beneficial to ensure I prioritize self-care.”
“The ring also tracks sleep quality, which has a profound effect on stress, suggesting meditative practices or breathwork when necessary. Plus, it integrates with my Natural Cycles app, helping me connect stress levels with my menstrual cycle.”
2. Create a Personalized Stress Toolkit
According to nutritionist Jo Woodhurst, establishing a personalized toolkit is vital for managing stress effectively.
She explains, “This toolkit may comprise yoga, nature walks, breathwork, regular exercise, sleep strategies, and similar practices.”
“Nutrition is a core aspect of this toolkit. Proper nourishment for both the mind and body is essential for facing daily challenges and preventing burnout.”
“Consuming the right nutrients provides the necessary building blocks to support a resilient nervous system.”
“In our fast-paced world, an added layer of nutritional support is often essential – hence the role of supplements. For example, magnesium supplements can have a calming effect on the nervous system and help ease muscle tension.”
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“Vitamin C is vital for adrenal health, while adaptogenic herbs like Reishi and Ashwagandha further support the body in managing stress’s physical and chemical impact.”
“Incorporating these alongside other stress management strategies provides a holistic rather than a superficial approach.”
3. Enjoy Calming Beverages
Nutritionist Hannah Alderson recommends “‘Rested Resilience’ by Forage Botanicals” as an excellent stress-relieving drink.
“This chai latte blend is designed to reset your nervous system from prolonged stress, featuring warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, along with ashwagandha and oat tops to soothe an overwhelmed nervous system.”
Hannah elaborates on the benefits of ashwagandha: “It’s known for effectively reducing stress, classified as an adaptogen that helps the body maintain balance by moderating the stress response.
“Adaptogens are believed to reduce HPA axis activity, thereby regulating stress hormones like cortisol, and diminishing your body’s stress response.”
Like Jo, Hannah emphasizes that no single supplement can solely manage stress.
“Stress is multifaceted; it’s crucial to remember that a collaborative approach involving joy, nutrition, sleep, movement, and human connection—supplemented by the right supports—will yield the best results.”
4. Establish Strong Boundaries
Neuroscientist Dr. Tara Swart highlights the importance of setting firm boundaries in her work life. “I truly value my personal time and have robust limits on my work hours,” she explains.
She further explains, “Being surrounded by loved ones is my primary source of restoration, and my support system significantly alleviates stress.” Dr. Tara passionately believes in the healing power of nature, stating, “It’s almost impossible to feel stress amidst the beauty and tranquility of the outdoors.”
Nutritionist Charlotte Faure-Green cautions that supplements affecting one person may not work for another. “The most effective supplement is highly individualized,” she notes.
© Emma Croman
“For those not on antidepressants, saffron is an excellent option for supplementing stress management,” she adds.
“A daily dose of around 30mg has been shown to naturally boost serotonin and dopamine levels without causing drowsiness. I recommend ‘Saffrosun Calm’ from The Naked Pharmacy.”
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