SPRING 2015 maskmatters.org 9796 maskmatters.org SPRING 2015

mom’s agendaempower

KEEP IN MIND

SUSAN S. WILDER, M.D.CEO & FOUNDER OF LIFESCAPE MEDICAL

ASSOCIATES & LIFESCAPE PREMIER

Stress is a necessary

part of life that spurs us

to action and growth.

However, excessive stress

contributes to many

quality-of-life-destroying

health issues we see

facing our patients and

ourselves. That is why

learning coping skills to

promote resilience and

develop healthier stress

perception is essential

to our health and an

important tool to teach

our kids.

Mindfulness is the best antidote to feeling

overwhelmed and information overload. Anyone with

anxiety, depression, stress, chronic pain, obesity or

eating disorders, addiction or attention/cognitive issues

would particularly benefit from mindfulness training.

OUR LIFESCAPE VITALITY PRESCRIPTION IS A PERFECT WAY TO HELP MANAGE STRESS:

LIFESCAPE PREMIER8757 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale480-860-5269lifescapepremier.com

Rx for Families

STOMACH ACHESGO WITH YOUR GUT.According to Dr. Bincy Abraham, a gastroenterologist at Baylor College of Medicine, the brain’s nervous system is linked to the gut—which means mental stress can lead to stomach problems. Depending on the severity of symptoms, treatment can range from stool softeners to dietary changes. But exercise, which can boost endorphins and make the mind and gut feel better, may be the best natural remedy.

LOST LOCKSHAIR TODAY, GONE TOMORROW.Major stressful events such as job loss or ending a long-term relationship can lead to hair loss. While it’s normal to see hair in your brush (losing about 100 strands a day is common), you may see more than usual about three to six months after said event. While there’s no food or supplement proven to restore hair growth, eating a balanced diet can help cell growth.

TWITCHING EYELIDSTHE EYES HAVE IT.Stress is the most common culprit in these annoying muscle spasms, which typically occur around one eye and last for a few minutes. To ease the twitch, close your

eyes, relax and breathe deeply. Inhale for four seconds, hold

your breath for seven seconds, and

then exhale for eight seconds. Repeat this four times while putting mild pressure on the lid with your fingertip.

ACNEBREAK DOWN THE BREAKOUTS.Skin is sensitive to high levels of androgens, hormones that can contribute to acne flare-ups that can spike due to stress. In addition to natural stress-busting methods such as balanced eating and exercise, try oral and topical treatments and cleansers. These can unplug pores and wipe out bacteria that cause acne.

BACK PAINACHING FOR RELIEF.When you feel stress, your body produces hormones that produce a “fight-or-flight” response. In addition to elevating blood pressure and heart rate, this response also tightens muscles, which can lead to pain. If your back is in knots, movement is the best remedy. Stand up, do some stretches and try to get in a 10- to 15-minute walk.

Soure: Women’sHealthMag.com, WomensDay.com

RASHESSAVE YOUR SKIN.Because stress can throw your whole immune system out of whack, skin rashes and flare-ups of pre-existing conditions—like eczema—are common. Bland (non-perfumed) emollients and moisturizers can help ease discomfort and heal symptoms. But if the rash is accompanied by a fever and flu-like symptoms, experts recommend seeing your doctor right away.

STRESSSIGNALS By // Michelle Jacoby

For many moms—experts in juggling family,

home and work—stress just comes with the

territory. But fatigue and headaches aside,

stress can show itself in some unassuming

ways. Here are just a few signs and

symptoms that may clue you

in to your stress level.

FORGETFULNESS/CONFUSIONNOW WHERE DID I PUT THOSE KEYS?Ask any woman who’s got a lot on her plate and she’ll admit to forgetting a thing or two (find those keys yet?). Research shows that stress can shrink the hippocampus, the area of the brain responsible for memory. Fortunately, it will go back to its normal size once stress levels are lowered. Restore focus by going for a walk or climbing some stairs at work. Exercise helps keep the brain sharp.

J BREATHE. Focus on a deep cleansing breath at any opportunity (on hold, at a traffic light, waiting for a download, waiting for anything).

J Eat mindfully and joyfully.

J When you are eating, just eat. Without distraction, savor every bite.

J Practice gratefulness and kindness.

J Play and laugh daily.

J Reconnect with nature.

J Try a daily walking meditation, being aware of every movement, feeling and beauty in your environment.

J Unplug, unclutter and say “no.”

J Filter your inputs (invest wisely in people, programs and reading that inspire/empower/bring you UP).

J Indulge in sleep…recharge.

J Invest in transformative care.

J TREASURE YOUR HEALTH.