3 days Ago By Supriya Ramesh
With the onset of winter and AQI already skyrocketing, the air is not just polluted but stressful. To even think of stepping out of your doors is stressful; it is smog that has engulfed most cities, the capital being the most polluted. Myriad health challenges come along polluted air that we breathe, and one such complication is mental stress.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is real, and the winter pollution which is only getting worse with the passing years is hampering young minds, and intensifying existing health problems for adults. While precautions like wearing quality face masks, limiting outdoor time, and having indoor plants, among other things are a must for your physical wellness, taking care of your mental health is equally important. Not to worry! To help you combat the stress that has accompanied pollution this season and looks like it is here to stay, we have a few practical tips for you.
Stay Hydrated: Appearance plays a big role, so much so that it sometimes also impacts our confidence. Winter pollution and cold air can dry your skin and body to a great extent, leading to resulting in unnecessary stress. So, drink a lot of water! Include herbal teas and hydrating foods in your diet to stay hydrated and maintain moisture levels.
Mindful Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: When has meditation not helped someone? Self-care is important, and while you meditate, you work to calm your mind. Pollution makes it harder for many to breathe and worse for those who are prone to feeling anxious easily. In simple words, it increases feelings of bad vibes.
Hence, practising deep breathing exercises or meditating for 10–15 minutes daily can calm your mind and improve oxygen flow. Indoor Air Quality Enhancement: While improving the outdoor air quality is not entirely in your hands, enhancing the indoor air quality is. Fill your space workplace and rooms with indoor plants.
They help you in many ways—from giving off a pleasant vibe to filtering pollutants that the indoor air can trap. The pollutants can worsen stress levels. Get an air purifier and add as many indoor plants as you can like snake plants or peace lilies.
They work to naturally filter pollutants to improve air quality. Protect Your Skin Barrier: If you take enough care of your skin, you will eventually feel a lot better. Winter air with pollution can dry out your skin and irritate it, leading to discomfort and stress.
Help yourself with a dedicated skincare routine. A good wholesome regimen does not require layering your skin with 10 products. Stick to a short, effective one.
Indulge in gentle cleansing, a serum followed by a hydrating moisturiser. Don’t forget the sunscreen! And of course, take care of your lips, don’t let them get chappy. Regular Physical Activity: Even if the polluted air forces you to stay indoors, it is extremely crucial that you keep yourself physically active.
You certainly don’t need a huge ground to exercise or indulge in some good yoga session. Exercise has long been associated with reducing stress levels by releasing endorphins and helping the body flush out toxins. So, even if you want to keep it light, go for indoor workouts such as yoga, stretching, or cardio sessions.
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