23/10/2020
What a year this has been so far! 🥺
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The first quarter put the world in lockdown and lives were lost to an invisible enemy. The second quarter presented BlackLivesMatter after the death of George Floyd. Third quarter presented unrests and riots in America and Hong Kong due to various local political issues. We are now in the final quarter of the year and in Nigeria - the Giant of Africa - armed officials opened fire on unarmed, peaceful protesters.
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In all this, YOU need to take care of YOU!
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When events occur that make us feel threatened or that upset our balance in some way, our body’s defenses cut in and create a stress response, which may make us feel a variety of uncomfortable physical symptoms and make us behave differently, and we may also experience emotions more intensely.
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The most common physical signs of stress include sleeping problems, sweating, and loss of appetite. Symptoms like these are triggered by a rush of stress hormones in our body – otherwise known as the ‘fight or flight’ response. It is these hormones, adrenaline and noradrenaline, which raise our blood pressure, increase our heart rate and increase the rate at which we perspire, preparing our body for an emergency response. They can also reduce blood flow to our skin and can reduce our stomach activity.
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💥Simple solution? Physical exercise💥
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But..."Exercise can seem like an impossible challenge when you're having a tough time."
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I know, trust me, I know. As a Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor, the last few days since 20.10.20 have proved a challenge to me with regards to keeping active.
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However, "Out of the Ashes, I rise", and you can too.
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Physical exercise can be very effective in relieving stress. It produces endorphins—chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers—and also improve the ability to sleep, which in turn reduces stress.
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Exercises that you can perform at home include Yoga, Jogging (on the spot), skipping, strength training (if you have the right equipment) or dancing.
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In these stressful times that we're living in, what you need to do is focus on YOUR body, mind and soul.
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Stay Safe!
Abeke 'Torez' Samson