3 secrets to de-stressing

Bin your multitasking habit

Whoever said ‘multitasking is the ultimate form of efficiency’?

Liars!

According to the science, trying to do many things at the same time actually strains our emotional wellbeing.

“Ironically, multitasking often leaves us feeling emptier and disconnected,” says Tony Schwartz, the author of The Way We’re Working Isn’t Working. “When we split our attention, we also remember and retain less. If we’re singly focused, the brain’s hippocampus, the key to building enduring memories, is in charge. When our attention is more distracted, the striatum, a subcortical part of the brain associated with rote activities, takes over. The consequence is that our memories are more likely to be vague and disjointed.”

When we take in less info, we may need to revisit the task or conversation at hand. This places more demands on our time, weakens our relationships, and yes, exacerbates stress!

Fight it: Turn off your email alert at work, and check emails in allotted times; avoid talking on the phone when you’re driving (even if you use a hands-free); and never type while you’re having a conversation with a loved one on the phone—you’ll only make him or her feel unimportant.

Balance your nutrition sheet

When you’re not scoring a full net of nutrients, essentially you’re stressing your body out—even if everything else is order (say you’re emotionally well and your environment is non-stressy).

The reason: “Nutritional deficiency is a powerful stressor,” say Stephanie McClellan and Beth Hamilton, the authors of So Stressed.

They say that a slight iron deficiency, for example, may reduce the oxygen supply to the brain, making concentration a tall order. In this instance you may become fatigued and even irritable. Then there’s the Bs. Vitamin B deficiencies hamper your cells’ capacity to convert carbs and fats into energy. Magnesium shortfalls, on the other hand, may make you more sensitive to noise—which naturally ramps up your stress levels.

Fight it: Replace processed foods with fresh, whole foods. And see your healthcare professional or naturopath to suss out whether you’re missing any key nutrients and could benefit from a dietary supplement.

Erase the biggest exercise excuse

Exercise is one of the best ways to ensure you have the energy to deal with life’s stressors. According to Dr Craig Hassed, author of The Essence of Health, fitness also helps preserve your mental capacities and memory. The reason many cite for not getting on board: lack of time. As Hassed says, being ‘short on time’ is a cover for being short on motivation—it’s all about priorities.

Fight it: If you think exercise comes at the cost of time with your family, combine the two and take your kids for a ride or walk. Also aim to get your fitness session in before breakfast. There’s evidence that suggests this may be better for weight control. No matter how you work it though, just make sure it’s a non-negotiable part of your life. Check out our guide to fitness for tips and inspiration and get started today!

References available on request