Am I Stressed?

So by now you may have heard that stress is highly linked to a psoriasis flare. You may have heard it from your dermatologist before. You may have seen it during a google search about psoriasis may you read about it right here on plaquepsoriasis.com. Well it is true! Stress and traumatic life events that trigger stress in the minded body can also trigger your psoriasis to flare. Life gets hectic and stress sometimes feels inevitable. Daily activities like a long commute to work, challenges at work, or increased amount of school can all trigger your mind to become stressed. What is most important is recognizing when you feel stressed and finding what ways best help you cope. For years, I struggled with finding ways to deal with my stress. Once I found a routine, I felt more in control. Here are a few ways I have found to help cope with stress and prevent a breakout.

Exercise

Try to incorporate a daily exercise routine into your day. Exercise and physical activity have been proven to help fight stress and relieve the symptoms of psoriasis. Exercise can also help you achieve better control of inflammation. Exercise may seem difficult to add to your already hectic schedule. You can start with an activity that you love even if it is just 10 to 15 minutes a day. Whether you chose walking or even a light jog, exercising is a great stress management technique. I often do home workouts if my schedule does not allow me time to go to the gym and it works just as well!

Yoga and meditation

I started meditation recently as a way to relieve stress. I also incorporated yoga and deep breathing. The amazing thing about both of these options are that you can do them both at home! Meditation relieves stress by calming the mind and body. Deep breathing helps you relax and calms your mind. There are multitudes of yoga and meditation apps that you can download right to your phone. I use a meditation app called Simple Habit. It has hundreds of meditation techniques for stress. It’s so convenient to use no matter where I am if I start feeling anxious or stressed.

Healthy diet and adequate rest

Another stress management strategy is following a healthy diet and getting enough rest. A balanced meal and sufficient rest can really help make all the difference.You can try incorporating more fruits and vegetables which are packed with vitamins and nutrients that nourishes the body. Sleep is also very crucial. Following a regular sleep routine gives the body a chance to restore itself.

Talk to someone

When you start feeling stressed, try talking to someone you can trust about what is bothering you. Get some fresh air. Go to the park with a friend. Relieve your mind of what is bothering you to make way for positive thoughts. Stress can feel unavoidable but what is most important is recognizing when you feel stressed and finding what helps you.