Drinking as a means of stress control is a Catch-22. On one hand, it reduces the magnitude of our initial stress response. There’s even a scientific term for this: “stress-response dampening.” In the long run alcohol – in any amount – not only fails to improve stress relief and energy, it actually depletes them. Here are five ways that alcohol negatively impacts your stress and energy levels, and what to try instead.
Downward Sleep Spiral
One reason alcohol is so popular for stress control is its sedative effects. At first, we may feel relaxed, even sleepy. After falling asleep, this wears off, and a phenomenon called the Metabolic Rebound Effect (MRE) occurs wherein our bodies’ metabolism of alcohol interrupts restorative sleep cycles.
Booze-free tonics can better aid in relaxation and sound sleep. A soothing cup of lemon balm tea or a few drops of valerian root tincture calms you without pesky side effects.
Compounding Problems Exacerbate Stress
- It might feel like we’re conserving energy and boosting our mood by turning our thoughts away from stressful situations, but the fact is that ignoring our problems will not resolve them, and often makes them worse. The only way out is through
- This means we must face our obstacles head-on, from a place of emotional intelligence and maturity
Your Brilliant Brain’s Muddled Mood
- Taking charge of our mindset isn’t just about rewiring our belief systems-it also requires emotional management
- Use sustainable feel-good brain chemical boosters like exercise, nature immersion, meditation, laughter, time with loved ones, and aromatherapy massage to support effective stress control and boost your energy
Naturally Energizing Nutrients Are Depleted
One of the most essential nutrient groups our bodies need for energy and nervous system support is that of the B vitamins. Alcohol, however, impedes absorption and utilization of many nutrients (including B vitamins).
Regularly restore B vitamin levels. Salmon, brown rice, spinach, eggs, lean beef, oysters, clams, beans (black, kidney, chickpeas), lentils, chicken, turkey, yogurt, and sunflower seeds are rich sources of these nutrients for natural energy boosting and stress control.
