14/05/2020
Have you been experiencing more frequent hot flashes since the world went on lockdown and so much uncertainty and change as a result the Coronavirus. Stress is known to trigger hot flashes. Uncertainty, income, loneliness, loss of plans have been present throughout shelter in place mandates, which are all contributors to stress. I’m post menopausal and haven’t had a hot flash in over a year. Now, they are frequently present throughout the day 🥵🥴
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Here are some calming practices that help with stress reduction. ⠀
• Breathing exercises. 4-4-4: Breathe in - Hold - Release. Do this until you feel calm⠀
• Take a walk outside. Pay attention to the sounds of nature, leaves rustling in the breeze, the birds singing their songs, insects chirping. Take in the smells of nature, grass, dirt, trees. Let it calm you.⠀
• Meditate or sit quietly for a few minutes. The app has many free guided meditations and calming music to choose from that I have brought me calm.
• Call a friend and have some good laughs together.⠀
• Relaxing bath. Create a home spa and indulge as needed.⠀
• Get lost in a book.⠀
• Write in your journal. Check-in with yourself and allow the words flow onto the page⠀
• Do something creative that you enjoy like painting, writing, create a collage.⠀
• Play music that makes you feel good⠀
• Be kind to yourself. Make sure your self-talk is compassionate.⠀
• Avoid or reduce alcohol consumption. I know, that’s why it’s at the bottom the list. If you do have a glass of wine, just know that it may cause hotflashes.⠀
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