
How Does Stress Affect Weight Loss?
Stress, referred to as the silent killer, makes your body think it is being attacked, making your body go into fight or flight mode. In times of high stress, the body shuts down the digestive system in favor of sending blood to the muscles in case you need to run. While this is good for times you find yourself face to face with a bear, it isn’t good for daily life.
When the body is not digesting nutrients, food and other things you consume are not being filtered properly through the kidney, intestines and liver. As a result, food may be moved through too quickly, jipping your body of nutritional necessities.
Additionally, the body may think you’re about to be in a situation where you will not have food available so it automatically starts storing up calories for later use. The body stores calories by turning them into fat.
What Can I Do To Lower My Stress Levels?
This is something no one can really answer but you. However, there are many great suggestions. When looking to fight stress and lose weight, look for opportunities to do something fun. If you hate going to the gym to hit the treadmill, it only makes matters worse.
Find a exercise class you love that will help you burn calories. Something like cycling or Bikini Bootcamp can get you going thanks to great teachers.
But it is also important to find times when you can just breathe. Yoga is great for helping you focus on being in the moment. Having presence is a key to meditation and letting go of stress. Not only will you be focused on breathing in and out and controlling your thoughts, but your muscles will also find room to open up, letting the physical stress melt away. Try Flow Yoga at Downtown Athletic Club.
Don't let stress ruin your weight loss goals. Visit the DAC and find a plenty of fitness classes to peak your interest and make exercise a relaxing part of your routine.