Magnesium for Stress
When we hear the word stress, well, we stress. But did you know that stress can actually be a good thing? In short bursts ~ it spurs us into action, giving us the energy to get things done quickly. However, and in the more immediate sense of the world we currently live in, we all experience long-term (chronic) stress, which can negatively impact our mental and physical well-being.
That mental and physical health depends on us making better choices, not only for ourselves, but also for all those around us ~ co-workers, family, friends and even our furry companions. We can eliminate (or at the very least greatly minimize) our stress and find our way back to a life that takes joy in, and not just for the big celebratory moments, but the simple moments as well.
But that requires working on paying attention to our bodies, because when we don’t respond to the signals our bodies are sending us, this stress can cause any number of symptoms and can manifest in several ways, from minor symptoms like skin rashes, upset stomach and headaches, to more severe issues, such as:
- Short-temperedness and being easily agitated
- Difficulty sleeping/insomnia
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Feeling a loss of control
- Forgetfulness
- Lack and loss of energy and focus
- Social isolation
Our bodies don’t make Magnesium, so we have to find ways to absorb it every day.
How Can Magnesium Help?
Let’s get a little technical for a moment . . . Cortisol is the main stress hormone in the body and in certain, high-stress situations, it can release excessive amounts that can flood the brain.
This can lead to:
- Brain “flooding” ~ feeling overwhelmed
- Lack of focus
- Anxiety
- Nervousness
- Overall discomfort
Conversely, we know that Magnesium triggers the release of serotonin, which is a mood-boosting neurotransmitter that helps alleviate the symptoms of stress. Magnesium can also focus in on physiological issues like inflammation, which affects the entire body. Magnesium can help to address stress by filtering stress hormones and restricting their release in the brain.
In a study published about the link between Magnesium deficiency and stress, it was shown that both “are common conditions among the general population, and this can increase the risk of health consequences over time.” It goes on to suggest there is a vicious cycle at play – that stress upsurges a Magnesium loss, which causes a deficiency, and in turn, the deficiency could increase the body’s susceptibility to stress. This is an important concept that has been revisited in recent studies and highlights the connection between stress and Magnesium.
Stress is the number one reason our bodies do not have enough Magnesium. It’s why it’s the largest indicator on our chart of Magnesium depleters. Our bodies just aren’t designed to take on all modern life’s burdens. The more stressed we are, the less able our bodies are to hold onto this very special mineral.
Magnesium is critical for regulating the body’s response to stress.
Managing Stress
What was dubbed “alternative healthcare” is now making its’ way to the mainstream. The options available to us in terms of holistic health are many and prolific.
To reduce our stress, we are looking closer at:
- Taking a more holistic approach by using more natural products, as opposed to pharmaceuticals
- Learning ways to becoming our own best health advocates
- Supporting brands that provide us support via available education and resources
- Incorporating healthier habits, including diet, exercise, work/life balance
Click on the chart below to see how we consumers are coping with stress, post-pandemic. The trend is showing we are taking better care of ourselves, as a lifestyle.
“Hygge is about the way you live your life, a way that brings deep contentment to your soul.”
SUSAN POLIS SCHUTZ, POET
HYGGE - What is it and How Can it Help Me?
Let us introduce you to Hygge (Hou-gah) as an Antidote to Stress
One of Mineral & Co’s values is hygge (hou-gah). Hygge is about connection, trust, safety, health, comfort, value. It’s more of a feeling than anything else, termed by the Danes in the 1800’s as a way of life. It’s no coincidence that Denmark consistently ranks highest among the happiest countries in the world. We can get ourselves into a state of hygge every day, whether it’s for a few minutes or the entire day.
A hygge life encourages us to look at what truly brings us joy and make sure we include those things in our days.
Learn more about hygge here, and how you can get more of it in your daily living.
So. Welcome to your life. Welcome to your hygge. Welcome to Mineral and Co. where our goal is to help you be your best self. How? By bringing Magnesium, one of earth’s most nature-healing properties to you in these high-quality, highly concentrated, restorative Magnesium creams and lotions.