STRESS MAKES YOU FAT!

Okay I know, I know- A LOT of things will make you fat, but I'm blaming mine on stress. I am quite sure that my love of all things chocolate, pizza, and beer have nothing to do with it!

I was reading an article the other day. The report claims that chronic high stress can prevent you from losing weight—or even add pounds. The so-called "stress hormone" cortisol is released in the body during times of stress along with the hormones epinephrine and norepinephrine that constitute the "fight or flight" response to a perceived threat. Following the stressful or threatening event, epinephrine and norepinephrine levels return to normal while cortisol levels can remain elevated over a more extended time period. In fact, cortisol levels can remain persistently elevated in the body when a person is subjected to chronic stress. Cortisol makes you hungry- VERY hungry.   Like I needed an excuse to eat!

Now I don’t know about you, but everyday life is stressful! If it wasn’t hard enough to live in southern California- with the cost of housing, the need to keep up with the neighbor’s, and the pressure to join a spin class- They had to go and invent yoga pants, leggings, and skinny jeans!  It’s just not right.

My friend (and FEMO50 contributor) Amy recommends meditation.  I purchased her book, and I am committed to giving it a shot. I think it might help me manage my stress. Every time that glass of wine calls from the other room, I work hard to consider this healthier alternative, and focus on my breathing and being still.  My mind seems to be the biggest issue. My body is quite happy to sit still on occasion, but my brain- THAT is a whole different story.  AND why is the wine still calling me?

I tell my daughter’s that they should exercise to relieve stress. I am sure you can imagine their response. My youngest is quick to say, “It seems to be working well for you Mom”!   I like to exercise. I don’t love it, but I do like it occasionally. My mother’s incessant questioning about going to the gym is probably more of a motivation. My mother has always been quite proficient when it comes to doling out the guilt, and that just adds to my stress!

My job definitely stresses me out!  I suppose it is a necessary evil, but I’m pretty sure that it is responsible for a good ten pounds I have around my midriff!

I know that I will need to continue to find new ways to relieve my stress- the struggle is real.  It not only (apparently) adds weight, but I am pretty sure it takes years off your life! 

Here are some ideas I’m contemplating-

• SWIMMING – Once you get past the stress caused by getting into a swimsuit, I’m sure the water would be very relaxing.
• DRINKING LESS CAFFEINE: I might sleep through the first half of my day, but on the bright side- that's just less time to encounter stressful situations.
• WINE – Yes…  There is always wine!   In fact, I’m pretty sure that’s whose calling out from the other room again!