5 things you can DO TODAY to HELP with STRESS

I was having a conversation with someone about stress eating. They were so frustrated that they had packed on some extra pounds due to stress and turning to food for comfort. If this sounds like you then  trust me... you are not alone!

Perhaps, it's a salty food item that draws your attention, or maybe it's a warm piece of bread. Heck, maybe anything and EVERYTHING tastes good to you when you are stressed. So, what can you do when you head to the kitchen? Well, here are 5 actionable items you can tackle today.

1) Go for a walk-  Yes, go outside and get a breath of fresh air. Weather not cooperating ? Then pop open the garage and start doing jumping jacks, and lunges. No garage? Then try your front porch. Find a way to change your environment.

2) Clean something- if this is what ends up helping you relieve stress, then you will have one clean house! Or purse or car! What you are doing is forcing yourself to focus on something else aside from food. Scrub, vacuum, dust  or wipe it down. Just try it and see how you feel after.

3) Call someone- I didn't say text or Facebook someone, BUT actually pick up the phone and vent your frustrations to someone you trust. This is a great way to see if what you are stressing about is really worth it.

4) Do some deep breathing - Take the time and do deep breaths that reach deep into your belly. Focus on this for a few minutes and even try playing relaxation music on. If you have essential oils then place those on your temples and wrists. Do some self talking such as " Is it true ? Then let it go "  my friend gave me that phrase which was helpful to me during a stressful time and also try " I am a good person" many times I guilt myself to thinking that I am the bad guy or at fault. Repeat positive affirmations and the negative thinking will have no place in your mind.

5) Write your feelings out- there is something so therapeutic about putting pen to paper and just writing your feelings and frustrations. Write what you are really feeling, and then start listing 5 things that you are grateful for. Aim to write for 15 minutes, and if you catch yourself writing longer than that just keep going !!!

Stress is a real emotion that we all experience, just know that eating isn't the only way to appease those emotions. Try these 5 actionable things and put them to the test. You can overcome it! Don't let food control you !