Beware, Stress Is Contagious – Here’s How Not to Let Other’s Stress Affect You & Your Skin

Not only does Stress affect your entire body, it also can wreak havoc with your skin.  Stress can aggravate skin conditions like acne, eczema, dandruff and psoriasis – but did you know that stress is contagious?

Several studies have shown that stress is contagious.  As we are social creatures, we pick up on other people’s stress and then become stressed out ourselves.

While it’s impossible to keep away from a stressed out boss or spouse, we can learn some easy techniques to deflect contagious stress.

Here’s how not to let other’s stress affect you – and your skin:

Let Music Soothe You: Listening to your favorite song can help lower your stress level.  Even if you are at work or on a bus, get out your headphones so you don’t disturb anyone.

Take a Bubble Bath

Take a Bubble Bath: Take the edge off by relaxing in warm, fragrant, bubbly water.  Add a candle and favorite beverage for even more pleasure.

Fresh Air: To distance yourself from the source of stress, take a brisk walk outdoors in fresh air.  Even just a few minutes away from the stress source will help.

Exercise

Exercise: Destress and get healthy at the same time by engaging in physical exercise.  Find an activity you like and keep at it – at least 3 times per week for optimal benefits.

Massage: Even if a professional massage isn’t affordable, ask a friend for a back massage or use a personal massager.  Add scented oil for even more pleasure.

Breathing/Meditation:   There are lots of online sources to learn breathing exercises and mindful meditation.  Breathing techniques can be especially helpful, as it can be done anywhere, anytime for instant stress relief.

Laugh

Laugh: Keep a folder of your favorite funny stories, jokes, videos that you can view whenever you need to chill.  Laughter really is the best drug free medicine.

Talk It Out: Share your stressful feelings with a trusted friend who cares about you.  Sometimes just talking about an issue can be very helpful and lift your spirits in no time.

 Photo Therapy:  Keep images of your favorite people and pets handy to view whenever stress sets in.  Looking at people and pets you love provides soothing stress relief.

Photo Therapy