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8 WHAT’S TRENDING Reducing STRESS AND ANXIETY By Margaret Mielczarek. W ith everything going on in the world at the moment – the unprecedented events of the COVID-19 pandemic, the lockdown measures, the looming threat of a second wave – it’s not surprising that a recent survey by Priceline Pharmacy found an increase in the number of people seeking professional advice on managing stress and overcome sleeping disorders. The survey, which included more than 100 pharmacists, found that 64 per cent of the pharmacists surveyed have seen an increase in demand for help with sleep management and 54 per cent reported an increase in requests to boost mood or manage anxiety. “We have many customers seeking professional advice on managing stress and sleeplessness,” said Nancy El-miski, Pharmacy Manager at Priceline Pharmacy Wetherill Park in Sydney. “They’re seeking information and recommendations on natural medicines and over-the-counter products \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\[and\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\] this has certainly increased since the COVID-19 pandemic.” To help manage and reduce stress and anxiety levels, the top 10 tips from naturopath and NaturoBest founder Nikki Warren are: • Be mindful. “Every thought has a corresponding physiological response. Positive thoughts equal less stress.” • Exercise. “Exercise helps you sleep better and let off steam when you’re feeling wound up.” • Breathe properly. “Breathe into your belly instead of your chest and count to six on the out breath to slow your breathing down.” • Meditate: “Find a meditation app you enjoy and meditate for at least five minutes every day.” • Laugh. “Watch comedy shows or movies, laugh with your friends and have fun with your partner.” • Eat well. “Adequate protein, carbohydrates and fats are essential for healthy neurotransmitter function. Five- plus veggies and two pieces of fruit are vital for a healthy mind and body.” RETAIL PHARMACY ASSISTANTS • AUG 2020