MIND-BODY CONNECTION: THE EFFECTS OF STRESS

Stress is a common trigger for skin conditions such as eczema and rashes. When we experience stress, our body produces hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which can cause inflammation and suppress the immune system. This inflammatory response in the skin can lead to flare-ups, making it harder for the skin to recover from irritation and damage.

It is essential to pay attention to changes in our skin and nails, as they can be signals that our stress levels are impacting our bodies. Taking care of our emotional well-being

is crucial for our mental and physical health.

Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce anxiety and alleviate some of the common symptoms of eczema or other skin conditions brought on by stress (National Eczema Association, 2021)

Building a small and doable routine daily can create drastic changes in your mind and body. Work some of these proven methods into your life for a few minutes a day until it becomes effortless:

• Engage in breathing exercises in the car, at work, before bed

• Hydrate a few times a day, stop 3 hours before sleep

• Balancing your food intake with fresh, whole foods

• Prioritize quiet, uninterrupted night-time routines for sound sleep to strengthen the immune system.
  

Here's my routine:

• Morning: Take 30 seconds of deep breathing when I wake up.

• Throughout the day: Whenever I feel tired or tense, I take 3 to 5 deep breaths.

• Throughout the day: snack on a portion of homemade fruit salad.

• Evening: Two hours before bed, turn the TV volume low, dim the lights, and ensure the house is comfortably warm.

• Bedtime: Bed by 11 p.m. and take 30 seconds to deep breathe while in bed. I usually fall asleep before I reach 30 seconds.