By Tegan Marshall, Clinical Naturopath & Founder of Glowable
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel like stress is a normal part of daily life. Deadlines, work pressures, family obligations, and the constant buzz of modern living can leave us feeling overwhelmed and anxious. But stress doesn’t have to rule your life. With the right strategies, you can balance your mood and reclaim a sense of calm and control. Here’s how.
1. Understand Your Stress Triggers
The first step in managing stress is identifying the triggers. What situations or activities make you feel most overwhelmed? Once you’re aware of what stresses you out, you can start to develop healthier responses. Whether it’s work pressure, financial concerns, or personal relationships, knowing your stressors gives you the power to manage them effectively.
2. Prioritise Restful Sleep
One of the best ways to balance your mood is by ensuring you get enough sleep. Poor sleep can leave you feeling irritable, anxious, and emotionally unbalanced, creating a cycle of stress. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night. Create a calming evening routine by avoiding screens before bed, sipping on herbal tea, and keeping a consistent sleep schedule.
Lack of sleep raises cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. By prioritising sleep, you can help regulate your mood and give your body the reset it needs.
3. Nourish Your Body with the Right Nutrients
Food plays a key role in how we feel, and eating a balanced diet can have a profound effect on your mood. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, are known to support brain function and reduce anxiety. Magnesium, found in leafy greens and nuts, helps calm the nervous system. Vitamins like B-complex and C are vital for energy and stress management.
A helpful supplement like Adapt by Glowable can provide a blend of stress-busting nutrients. Adapt contains magnesium and adaptogens like ashwagandha, which work together to lower cortisol and support a healthy stress response. Incorporating this into your daily routine can help you feel more grounded and resilient.
4. Move Your Body Regularly
Exercise is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress and balance your mood. Physical activity increases the production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Whether it’s a walk in nature, a yoga class, or strength training, find a form of exercise that you enjoy and aim to move your body daily.
Not only does regular movement help release physical tension, but it also improves sleep quality and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression.
5. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation
Mindfulness practices like meditation, focused breathing, and yoga can help you manage stress by keeping you grounded in the present moment. These techniques train your mind to stay calm and focused, even in challenging situations.
If you’re new to mindfulness, start with just five minutes of focused breathing each morning. This simple practice can set a positive tone for your day and create a sense of mental clarity.
6. Set Healthy Boundaries
Often, we take on too much, leaving little room for self-care. Setting boundaries is essential for protecting your mental and emotional wellbeing. Learn to say no to activities that drain your energy, and prioritise time for yourself. Whether it’s reading, taking a bath, or spending time in nature, self-care should be non-negotiable.
Don’t let stress control your mood—take proactive steps today to feel calmer and more in control of your mental health.
