Stress affects everyone and can be overwhelming without a means of stress relief. One of the most effective methods of relieving pent-up pressures is by speaking with someone. Not convinced? To help understand why social engagement is vital, we reveal five ways it can help you through Stress Awareness Month and beyond.
Social engagement causes de-stressing hormones
Humans are inherently social, which is why social engagement is an effective form of stress relief. The social support from our loved ones help our bodies produce a hormone called oxytocin, proven by MentalHelp.net. This hormone decreases anxiety levels and increases our sense of attachment to others. So, make sure you seek out social engagement with friends and family every once in a while.
Hugs occur with in-person social engagement
Hugs feel nice, don’t they? According to Science Direct, that’s because touch with a loved one releases oxytocin and reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) in the body. In addition to stress relief, touch is important for mental wellbeing, with hugs communicating affection and safety from someone caring. Social engagement in-person with friends, family or a loved one, increases the chance of a hug, helping each other feel soothed and loved.
Social engagement helps share your concerns
Ever heard the phrase ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’? Well, it’s true! Speaking with a loved one about your concerns helps re-focus your pressures outward, instead of inward. Sometimes, it’s enough just to have someone listen to your concerns to feel valued. You never know – they may have advice of their own that you didn’t consider! However, if it’s a recurring problem, make sure to not overload your loved ones at every instance – it’s important to seek professional help such as from your GP or organisations like Mind if problems persist.
Workplace stress can be resolved
Is your stress coming from the work place or elsewhere? If it’s the salon or spa, it’s vital you talk with your manager or team to help resolve the matter. For example, if you’re part of a team and the stress is a direct result of another team member or work-related problem, then speaking with your manager will usually be able to resolve the matter. If you manage a team instead, then it’s important you can identify and manage stress in the workplace. Either way, this social engagement will help resolve the matter for stress relief.
Social tea is perfect for stress relief
Did you know that drinking tea lowers levels of cortisol? That makes the drink perfect for stress relief, especially green tea. Best of all, tea is best served over social engagement with a friend. That way, you can both talk to one another to share your concerns, decompress, and relax. With National Tea Day on Thursday 21st April, now’s the perfect time to plan a cuppa with a loved one!
With April marking Stress Awareness Month in the UK, now’s more important than ever to be aware of methods to relieve stress, such as social engagement. Even if you’re unable to meet in person, there are plenty of other ways to contact friends and family, such as a call, text or social media.
We have also outlined plenty of other tips throughout April to help you de-stress. Check our social media networks on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for more, below: