In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become an inevitable part of our daily lives, affecting us from all angles, be it family, work, or the daily commute. Recognizing April as stress awareness month, CBS NY New York sat down with Dr. Efrat LaMandre or Dr. E as she is referred to, to dive deep into practical strategies to mitigate stress and enhance our quality of life. Here’s a glimpse into some of the invaluable advice she shared.
Physical Activity
Dr. LaMandre emphasizes that one doesn’t need to engage in intense or long physical activities to fight stress. “Physical activity, it’s a natural stress buster, and by the way, it does not have to be intense, and it does not have to be long if you just do 15 to 30 minutes of a walk,” she suggests. This simple routine is highly effective because it triggers the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormones that play a crucial role in calming us down and alleviating stress.
Mindfulness
When we hear “mindfulness,” the mind often jumps straight to meditation. However, Dr. LaMandre clarifies, “Mindfulness just means being aware.” It’s about being present in whatever you’re doing, whether eating, having a conversation, or simply taking a moment to breathe. These “mini vacations for our brain,” as she calls them, can significantly reduce stress levels over time.
The Critical Role of Sleep
Sleep is a non-negotiable element when managing stress, according to Dr. E. Sleep not only resets hormones like adrenaline and cortisol but also prepares you for the challenges of the coming day. “When you don’t get sleep, your resiliency goes down and the stress goes up,” she points out, underscoring the indispensability of seven to nine hours of quality sleep for maintaining mental health and resilience.
The Downside of Digital Overuse
In an increasingly connected world, Dr. LaMandre speaks to a common culprit of disrupted exercise routines, mindfulness, and sleep patterns: excessive phone use. The constant barrage of information and blue light from screens not only hampers physical and mental presence but also impairs sleep quality.
Additionally, she differentiates between the shallow connections formed on social media and the deeper, more meaningful interactions with friends and loved ones that genuinely help combat cortisol hormones.
Dr. E’s Personal De-stressing Tactics
In the final part of the interview, Dr. LaMandre shares a simple yet profoundly effective tip for immediate relief: taking a deep breath. “There’s a lot of science behind it,” she reassures, explaining that this simple act can release chemicals in the body to manage stress. Moreover, she reiterates the importance of sleep hygiene and rituals in promoting a restful mindset and bolstering resilience against stress.
Your Stress-Free Blueprint
Managing stress isn’t rocket science. It’s about stitching together small practices—like exercising, being mindful, sleeping well, and connecting genuinely with people—into a harmonious routine that keeps stress at bay. Remember what Dr. Efrat LaMandre shared with us on CBS NY New York. Take a deep breath, folks, because you got this!
