Whether you're frowning at the demands of daily life or raising your eyebrows at the cost of everything, long-term stress not only increases your risk for health problems, such as depression and heart disease, it can show on your face, too.
The problem is that we aren't designed for it, says stress guru Neil Shah. Our ancestors would have experienced intermittent short bursts of stress, triggering them to either fight or flee. Modern stress might be lower, but it's constant. Build your defences and save your skin - with our expert tips.
TURN UP THE TUNES
Does listening to hits from the 70s or 80s remind you of nights out with friends back in your youth? Nostalgia is a great way to make you feel young again. And, not only that, but enjoying tunes you love can heal blood vessels and boost blood flow, helping you to unwind, found American scientists. Good circulation is also important for collagen production - which gives your skin that plump, youthful appearance. Win, win!
Stand tall
When we're stressed, our muscles tense, particularly in the neck and shoulders, leading to headaches and other pains - which is instantly ageing. Perfecting your posture can help. Stand with your ears, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles all in a straight line, with your belly button pulled in towards the spine.
EMBRACE YOUR INNER CHILD
Bogged down by life's responsibilities? Doing an activity you enjoyed as a child - whether that's finger painting or doing puzzles - will serve as a great distraction, helping you to relax.
This story is from the April 15, 2024 edition of WOMAN'S OWN.
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This story is from the April 15, 2024 edition of WOMAN'S OWN.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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