When mothers think of relaxing, they may have their go-to stress relievers. It could be something like going to the park, eating a dessert, watching television, etc.
However, not all stress relievers are equal. While some things may be healthy and effective at reducing stress, others can actually exacerbate stress and make it even worse for us.
Here are six common stress relievers that, in many cases, should be avoided.
Stress-relieving foods
Junk foods, fatty foods, and sweets are the worst for you when stressed. These foods can give you a temporary high but leave you feeling more sluggish afterward than before.
Mothers who eat unhealthy snacks to relieve stress can often gain weight, which only adds to their stress levels. Instead of these snacks, choose ones that are better for you, such as fruits, nuts, and yogurt. These foods contain healthy fats, proteins, and other nutrients that can help keep your energy levels up while reducing your stress levels.
Caffeine
Mothers who rely on caffeine to get them through the day can often find themselves in a dangerous dependence and stress management cycle. Even though caffeine offers an immediate boost, it can cause people to quickly fall into the “crash and burn” state and be unable to function.
You’ll want to limit how much caffeine you consume and break the cycle of dependence. Instead of that afternoon cup of coffee, try drinking non-caffeinated tea or take some deep breaths to help clear your mind and reduce stress. If you still need more energy, try having a snack with healthy fats or protein to help stabilize your levels.
Alcohol
Drinking alcohol when under stress is a common practice for many mothers, but it can ruin your mental health in the long run. It may seem like it’s helping to calm you down initially, but that high quickly turns into a mash of depression, anxiety, and fatigue.
If you want a drink to unwind after a long day, try sticking to just one. Alternatively, you should stay away from alcohol if you feel you have an alcohol addiction or are struggling with mental illness.
Cigarettes
Smoking might be often used as a stress reliever because people feel it helps them relax and stay calm. In reality, smoking only makes you tense and irritable and increases your blood pressure. This can worsen the stress you are experiencing rather than relieve it.
If you feel the need to reach for a cigarette, try finding an alternative way to relax instead. For example, you could go for a walk or do some yoga to help clear your mind and reduce tension in your body. If you have trouble stopping smoking on your own, talk to your doctor about getting some professional help.
Extreme physical activity
Exercising can be a great way to relieve some stress, but if you go too hard, you could do more harm than good. If you’re consistently pushing yourself at the gym, you run the risk of injuring yourself or wearing yourself out.
Rest and taking breaks are just as crucial for your body as exercise. You want to find an activity or create a healthy routine that you enjoy and stick to. This can help you avoid overexertion.
Technology
Mothers who spend hours a day browsing social media or watching TV will often find themselves feeling more stressed out afterward. These activities consume much of your time and attention, leaving you feeling unproductive and guilty.
To avoid this trap, try limiting your time on social media or watching TV to just a few hours per day. If you have trouble doing this, there may be an underlying problem that needs addressing, such as depression or addiction.
Conclusion
There are plenty of stressors that can negatively impact mothers. Whatever the cause, it’s essential to find healthy ways to manage stress and avoid negative behaviors.
If you’re looking for healthy ways to relieve stress, many alternatives can help you lead a happier and healthier life. By making simple changes and avoiding unhealthy habits, you can start feeling physically and mentally better.