American psychiatrist and family physician Lawson Wulsin notes that the Daily Mail reports ordinary, everyday actions can lower chronically high stress. Activities like physical touch, playing with pets, sharing meals, and engaging in mindfulness practices have been linked to meaningful reductions in stress levels. The suggestion is not to chase a quick fix, but to weave calm and connection into daily life through approachable routines.
Chronic stress is more than a feeling of being overwhelmed. It rankles the body too, contributing to the development of metabolic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, and in turn increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Beyond the physical toll, stress takes a heavy mental health toll, amplifying worry, mood swings, and fatigue. This observation aligns with a growing body of clinical perspective that treats stress as a central factor in overall health, rather than a mere companion to illness. When stress persists, the body’s systems respond with heightened inflammation and hormonal shifts that can complicate recovery and well‑being.
The physician emphasizes practical steps to boost the body’s oxytocin — often called the love or bonding hormone — which supports attention to social signals, eases muscular tension, and fosters a sense of calm that invites more meaningful social connection. Oxytocin rises when people interact warmly with others, whether through touch, shared conversation, or simply time spent with trusted companions. Even light, relaxed social gatherings, such as dining with family or friends, can stimulate this hormonal surge and reinforce social bonds that buffer stress.
Physical contact, including petting a dog or cat, holding hands, or embracing a friend, is highlighted as a simple, accessible way to elevate oxytocin levels. The idea is that healthy affection and proprioceptive feedback from touch help regulate the nervous system and promote a grounded sense of safety. Time spent in group settings, whether a dinner or a casual meetup, also triggers oxytocin release and reinforces a sense of belonging that is protective against stress-related strain.
Movement plays a complementary role. Exercise, whether carried out at high or moderate intensities, has shown consistent associations with improved mood and reduced stress indicators. Endorphins and other neurochemicals released during physical activity contribute to a more balanced stress response, while social exercise — such as group workouts or cardio classes — can combine physical benefits with social support, amplifying overall well‑being.
Meditation and other contemplative practices can help some people achieve relaxation and mental clarity, but they are not universally soothing. Some individuals experience heightened anxiety with certain mindfulness techniques. The psychiatrist therefore recommends aligning practices with personal temperament. For many, more active, dynamic approaches like yoga offer a gentler path to calm and can improve mobility, breath control, and body awareness, which in turn can lower stress and improve resilience over time.
In the broader health conversation, it is acknowledged that stress can influence cancer pathways, underscoring the link between psychological state and physical health. While stress is not a proven cause of cancer on its own, persistent stress may affect immune function and the body’s ability to cope with disease. This perspective invites a holistic approach to health that addresses stress management as part of comprehensive cancer prevention strategies and overall wellness. The long‑term message remains clear: reducing chronic stress through healthy habits supports physical health, mental health, and social connectedness, ultimately contributing to a more balanced life.