Noticing Signs of Stress in the Summertime? Here's Why You're Not Alone
Summertime and the living is easy — or so it seems. Between planning vacations and picnics, trying to get things done at work, and packing your days full of fun activities, the summer can be, well, a little more chaotic than carefree.
All the little things you’re juggling can actually add up to lots of stress: Contrary to popular belief, a new study from the American Physiological Society says that stress can rise in the summer. The good news? If you’re feeling stressed, you’re not alone, and there are plenty of ways to check your stress levels and keep the signs of stress — like cold sores — at bay.
How to Cope With Summertime Stress
Try meditation.
A recent, smaller study published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology suggests a long-term meditation practice can provide a reduced stress response. Set aside a few minutes each day to clear your head, and if you need help getting started, download an app that offers guided sessions. Find it tough to turn off your thoughts? That’s okay. You can give deep breathing exercises a shot. Inhale through your nose, hold your breath for a few seconds, then exhale through your mouth. Focus on your breath, and try not to let your mind wander. It’s okay if deep breathing is as close to meditating as it gets — you’ll still see some benefits.
Get moving.
You don’t have to be a master yogi or marathon runner to reap the rewards of being active. Any exercise — whether it’s walking, cycling, Pilates, swimming laps, or something else — can help your mind as much as it does your body by producing feel-good endorphins. If you’re already exercising regularly, consider switching it up with a new activity or class. If not, consult your doctor before beginning a new regimen. Start slow, and work up to multiple workouts a week.
Practice self-care.
Treat yourself to a little bit of luxury, whether it’s buying a new beach read, getting a massage, or taking a bubble bath. Stepping away from screens, slowing down, and giving yourself “me time” is like hitting the restart button on your day. When you feel rejuvenated and at your best, it’s much easier to face the world — and all of summer’s little stressors.
Set yourself up for success.
Summertime is full of fun activities, but do your best to not overschedule yourself. If you’re taking a trip, don’t wait until the last minute to pack. If you’re throwing a party, take it easy on yourself and make it a potluck. The less pressure you put on yourself, the less stressed you’ll be in the long run. And be sure to keep solutions on hand if signs of stress, like cold sores, do appear. Abreva cream starts working immediately[1] and, when used at the first sign of a cold sore, can help you get rid of your cold sore in two-and-a-half days[2].
With Abreva, having a cold sore will be one fewer thing to stress about this summer. And with all of summertime’s little stressors, we can use as much help as we can get!
[1] Based on laboratory studies
[2] Median healing time 4.1 days, 25 % healed in 2.5 days