A Four Step Plan to Stress Less

Published by the Dr. Oz show.

Don’t let stress make a mess of your balanced life. The greatest mind and body expert of our time, Deepak Chopra, shares his four simple secrets to stress less.

Stress-Less Starter Breakfast

This breakfast consists of one tablespoon of flaxseed oil, one hardboiled egg, and tomatoes and cucumbers drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Flaxseed and olive oil help slow the release of inflammatory hormones the body pumps out under stress. The omega 3 fatty acids in flaxseed and olive oil also provide anti-inflammatory effects on your joints and improve blood flow. EPA and DHA fatty acids present in omega-3s also maintain healthy levels of serotonin. Serotonin controls emotional response and creates a sense of well-being within the body. Take the flaxseed oil as you would cough syrup and enjoy this nutrient-rich breakfast.

Take a Stress-Less Supplement: Endorphinate

Endorphinate is used to support important functions in the body that promote a sense of calm, comfort and well-being. This stress-reducing supplement contains two B vitamins, folate and vitamin B12, which help prevent and relieve physical and emotional distress. Take two capsules in the morning and afternoon, for a total of 4 capsules. This supplement can be found online  at www.deepakchopra.com

Eat a Stress-Less Snack: Chyawanprash

This jam-like mixture of herbs, spices and other ingredients from the ancient ayurvedic healing tradition is widely used in India due to its extensive health benefits. The main ingredient in this snack is amla, a gooseberry that is very rich in vitamin C. Research shows vitamin C may help prevent the stress hormone cortisol from increasing after a stressful event. Chyawanprash can be eaten by itself or it can be spread on a cracker or piece of toast. This vitamin C-packed snack is available at health food stores for $10.

Try Stress-Less Breathing Exercise: Ujjayi

Breathing is fundamental for life, but because it is automatic, we tend to take it for granted. Ujjayi breathing is a technique created by ancient yogis to help clear and cleanse the body and mind. It is a diaphragmatic breath which first fills the lower belly, activating the lower rib cage and finally moves into the upper chest and throat. Inhalation and exhalation are both done through the nose. Practicing ujjayi breathing several times a day for a minute or two can have huge benefits.

For more stress-reducing and relaxation techniques from Deepak Chopra, click here.