Held in April since 1992 and celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, in 2022 it seems particularly important. Because living through a pandemic and news from Ukraine in the shadow of war is stressful.
Either "pandemic fatigue" or "crisis fatigue," anger, fear, worry, or frustration are normal responses to uncertain situations (like COVID-19 pandemics or Russia's attack on Ukraine.) According to a study conducted in China (2020), the onset of COVID-19 decreases emotional well-being by 74%. Many people are feeling stressed. You are not alone.
What is stress?
In textbook terms, stress is your body's reaction to pressure from an uncertain situation or event. In other words, it is the feeling of being overwhelmed or unable to cope with emotional and mental strain.
Stress can cause the following effects on your body and behavior:
- Feelings of anger, fear, hopelessness, numbness, sadness, or worry
- Changes in appetite, desires, energy level, and interests
- Difficulty focusing and clear thinking to make decisions
- Sleeping disorders or nightmares
- Physical reactions, like body pains, headaches, skin rashes, and stomach issues
- Worsening of chronic physical and mental health complications
- Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
There are many methods one can function and cope with stress in a time of uncertainty:
- exercise,
- a balanced diet;
- regular sleep;
- and connecting with others are great ways that individuals can control.
Moreover, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can bring you back into a state of tranquility when stressors imbalance your nervous system.
Note: regular practice delivers the most incredible benefits.
In addition, there are easy yet great tips to reduce stress. The use of aromatherapy-related products is one of them.
The aromatherapy or essential oil therapy can be extremely helpful in managing the mood whether you feel overwhelmed, need to be re-energized, or relaxed. In addition, there are easy yet great tips to reduce stress. The use of aromatherapy-related products is one of them. The aromatherapy or essential oil therapy can be extremely helpful in managing the mood whether you feel overwhelmed, need to be relaxed, or re-energized.
At Cleverfy Beauty, our essential oil-infused shower steamers are a great trick to reduce stress and restore well-being. Essential oils like Citrus, Lemongrass, and Rose work to manage stress and anxiety. Inhaling these essential oils can help produce feel-good chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine that uplift mood. Naturally occurring linalyl acetate in Lavender has calming properties and lowers stress levels and enhances overall mental health.
*If you are still struggling to cope, having anxiety and depressive symptoms, having trouble working, caring for your children, or functioning daily life activity for several days in a row, seek out a health professional.
