What is Stress?
This month I thought I would write a little more calmly….So what is stress?
‘Stressed out’- is the term we use for when our bodies and minds are feeling threatened and overwhelmed by situations around us and close to us. Physiologically stress can make us feel tired, achy and generally unwell, psychologically it can make us feel unhappy, sad, angry and fearful. It’s not a nice place to be.
Stress can affect the entire body, including the health of skin, hair and nails!
Our psychological state determines how the body responds to it. When stressed, the body’s automatic defence mechanism responds by releasing stress hormones.
The Mind- Skin Connection
When the mind is stressed, the body’s sympathetic nervous system releases stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. Cortisol can cause an overproduction of sebum (oil) production into the skin glands, leading to clogged pores or acne breakouts. Long-term or chronic stress leads to constant increased levels of these hormones, thereby potentially having a greater negative affect on the skin health.
Stress hormones affect various functions in the body such as blood flow to the skin. Consequently, stress, anxiety or depression can cause existing skin issues to flare up, for instance aggravating psoriasis, rosacea, or eczema.
Acute stress can also create new skin issues such as irritation or a rash. Alternatively, it may cause one to feel nervous or anxious and pick at scabs or acne or scratch the skin until it becomes red or breaks.
Stress can often be triggered by events surrounding us and out of our control, so it is important to take extra care of yourself in times of uncertainty and change. I think we have been through plenty of those times recently!…
Bigger things and world events we may not be able to change but we can certainly ride the wave until calm returns – and it will as everything passes.
What can we do to help ourselves in the meantime?
How can I help myself?
I think most of us know what we should be doing but knowing where to start can be another challenge. Firstly, talking to someone can often help. We are all feeling the strain right now and sharing how you feel can help to alleviate feelings of isolation. Don’t feel afraid to share with friends, relatives, professionals, we love talking and listening to our clients – it’s so good to talk.
The ‘Me’ factor
Don’t be afraid to put yourself first! – if you can prioritise yourself at least once a day, everyone around you will benefit too, it’s a fact. So go on put the kettle on….
Be kind to yourself
Give yourself a break, put away the magnifier in the bathroom and give the bathroom scales a short holiday. If exercise is your thing make the time and do it. If you miss your friends give them a call not a text. Walk the dog. Walk by yourself. Have that massage. Read that book. Have a bath in the middle of the day! Put down your phone….but not before you have watched funny cat videos (ooh it’s our favourite!!)
And Breathe…
We are also here to help. Having a beautifully relaxing facial treatment or Aromatherapy massage is gorgeously indulgent way to have some proper pamper time. And it doesn’t have to cost the earth. We run special offers on week days and for last minute appointments for facials and massage- just ask for our Late Availability 10% discount. You can book for these online at www.skinfitclinic.co.uk or call us on 0208941 0516
Feel Beautiful, Be beautiful
Caring for your skin properly can make you feel so much better about your appearance. Make sure you are exfoliating properly. Wear the correct moisturiser. Use a serum to combat fine lines if you feel that is best for you. Upgrade your facial routine every now and then (there is always a birthday or Christmas list!)
Get the correct advice on how to care for your skin and start to rebuild the skin’s natural defences.
We offer FREE consultations and advice on how to care for your skin.
With the darker evenings approaching and winter on its way it is good to have a plan- speak to us about a winter skin plan or simply relaxation www.skinfitclinic.co.uk