In today’s world, many of us suffer from ‘stress’! Stress can have a major effect on both your mental and physical health.
Working long hours and living fast-paced busy lives, we often get caught up in the hustle and bustle and don’t make time for exercise or self care.
Stress can be a serious driver for many sports and athletic injuries. As athletes, it is important to learn strategies to ensure that you don’t get overwhelmed with stress and are able to prevent stress and stress related injuries.
Ways to manage your stress & prevent injuries:
Fuel your body
- Fuel your body with nutritious foods & follow a balanced diet. The food you put into your body can affect your mood and your energy levels. Food is there not only to enjoy, but also to fuel your body with the energy you need to go about your day to day life. Ensure you are fuelling your body with nutrition and enjoying a balanced-diet, treating yourself when you feel appropriate.
Get active
- Even though you may feel like you are time poor and overly busy, taking even 30 minutes out of your day dedicated to movement will increase your mood, decrease and relieve your stress and keep your body healthy, avoiding injury. If you don’t have time for the gym or don’t know where to start, try and go for a 30 minute walk to start your day or a lunch break jog?
Foam roll & stretch
- Foam rolling and stretching can be incorporated into your day to keep your blood flowing and get your body moving. This will prevent injuries and help you recover after exercise. Take this time to reflect on your day and relax, stretching can be a form of mediation too.
Sleep well
- Sleep is vital for your body to recover and restore. It is recommended to get between 6-9 hours of sleep each night to function at your best potential and reduce stress.
Seek guidance from a professional
- Professionals are here to help – their guidance can assist you in managing your day to day tasks, stress and overwhelming thoughts. Take steps to becoming a better, less stressed you! Incorporate a morning and night routine into your day to relieve stress and ensure you are supporting your mind and body by fuelling your body with nutritious foods, getting optimal exercise, mediating, stretching and sufficient sleep.