Are you feeling stressed out? Or maybe a little bit anxious? Maybe the better question is, “Who isn’t?!”

In this Best of Wellness Connection video, which was filmed during the days of COVID when everyone was confined to their homes and going a little stir-crazy with the lock-down, Dr. Matt reviews some simple breathing techniques to help restore your emotional balance so you can think straight and lessen the actual aches and pains that come with chronic stress. It’s just as useful now as it was then!

Including deep breathing, here are some quick pointers to help you relieve stress:

1. Use slow, diaphragmatic breathing. Sit or lie comfortably, relax your shoulders, and breathe in slowly through your nose for about 4 seconds, then exhale for 6 to 8 seconds. Do this for 3 to 5 minutes. The longer exhale can help to divert intrusive thoughts and balance your emotions.
2. Take a 10- to 20-minute walk. Walking at a comfortable, steady pace can decrease muscle tension, improve circulation, and help regulate your nervous system. You don’t need to walk fast! Consistency matters more than intensity.
3. Gentle movement. Spend 5 to 10 minutes slowly moving your neck, shoulders, upper back, hips, and legs. Gentle movement can reduce the muscular stiffness that often accompanies stress.

Even these small diversions can make a big difference in your stress levels and the negative consequences to your body! And remember, if you find yourself suffering with stress-induced aches and pains, please give us a call at ‭(239) 242-0070‬. Our physical therapists are skilled in helping you work out those kinks so you can get back to what you love!

Subscribe to our Monthly Wellness Connection videos for more valuable tips to prevent pain and get back to what you love – without drugs and without surgery!

Check out our Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIN pages for more upcoming tips to help you keep your back in peak operating condition! We’ll be back soon with a brand new Wellness Connection video!

In case you missed it…

Welcome!

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Lauren Stoker to Allied Physical Therapy! Dr. Lauren will be joining our pelvic floor team and will begin seeing patients in November! We can’t wait!