By Nanette Wiser
NAMASTE NEWS
One of life’s challenges is dealing with stress, which can cause or aggravate health problems. April is Stress Awareness Month and a good time to adopt coping behaviors that reduce stress, starting with a visit to your doctor to assess your physical health and concerns about possible stress-related ailments such as headaches, insomnia, high blood pressure and heart disease. For some, a visit with a licensed mental health professional can help you plan a strategy to a less stress-free life. An American Psychological Association survey identified the five factors most often cited as a source of stress: money, work, family, economic outlook, and relationships as well as health and world affairs (including climate anxiety). Exercise, yoga, breath work, tai chi, meditation, diet, sleeping well and connecting with others are good first steps. Laughing more and keeping a gratitude journal can help boost positivity as well.
WELLNESS TRENDS
Red light therapy devices, microcurrent facial tools, and lasers that people can use at home themselves will be big. Look for more at-home access to blood testing and other diagnostic assessments that connect to apps and digital platforms. Biotech skincare will make waves as a wellness trend as well as exercise recovery tools for home use such as massage therapy guns and air compression boots. Micro workouts (think TikTok one-minute dances and fitness challenges) and bite-sized workouts throughout the day are huge. Spa services promoting self-care and wellness days are trending. And gyms are upping their game to lure people back with infrared saunas, cryotherapy chambers, and cold tubs. In addition to plant-based diets and healthy eating, sober-curious is hot, especially mood-boosting drinks that use different plants and herbs to help your body adapt to stress and other ailments without alcohol.
RED TIDE
Hoping it’s gone in April, but if it lingers it’s best to not swim in red tide waters that may cause skin irritation, rashes, and burning and sore eyes. People with lung ailments should avoid affected beaches. Wind and currents change the forecast daily so check here: visitbeaches.org/map