Stress During The Game and Its Impact on Cardiac Health: Tips for Self-Care
The Super Bowl is the most watched televised event in the U.S. annually. But the stress and excitement of game day can take a toll on fans’ cardiac health. Understanding and mitigating this strain is key.
The Link Between Super Bowl Stress and Heart Issues
Intense emotions like Super Bowl stress can negatively impact the heart. During stressful games, the body releases cortisol and adrenaline. This increases blood pressure and heart rate, potentially overworking the cardiovascular system. Fans may also make poor diet choices or drink excess alcohol, compounding issues.
“The Super Bowl is basically our biggest unofficial holiday. We overeat, we over-drink, it’s a very stressful moment and you put that all together, especially for people that are already at increased risk for having heart attacks, those who have high blood pressure, those with high cholesterol, diabetes, if you smoke, if you drink too much, you’re overweight. All of that can come together and form a perfect storm and increase your risk for a heart attack.” ~ Nicholas Ruthmann, MD, cardiologist for Cleveland Clinic
Why the Super Bowl Causes Stress
The Super Bowl has incredibly high stakes from a cultural and entertainment perspective. Fans experience adrenaline highs and lows watching plays unfold. The uncertainty of the game’s outcome also builds suspense and anxiety. This rollercoaster of emotions taxes the heart.
Managing Emotions to Protect Your Ticker
Don’t let the thrill of game day jeopardize your health. Here are tips for fans to minimize cardiac strain:
🏈Take deep breaths during intense moments
❤️Stay hydrated and eat nutritious game-day snacks
🏈Get up and stretch or meditate during commercial breaks
❤️Consume alcohol in moderation
🏈Have functioning medication if you have a heart condition
❤️Know the warning signs like chest pain that warrant medical help
Essential Self-Care for Super Bowl Sunday
Incorporating relaxation into your Super Bowl traditions can work wonders:
Pre-Game Spa Session
Before kickoff, treat yourself to activities like:
🛁A warm bath with Epsom salts to soothe nerves
🧘♀️Gentle yoga flows to release tension
💜Aromatherapy with essential oils like lavender
🕉 Guided meditation apps to center your mind
Halftime Break
Use halftime to press pause and engage in self-care. Consider:
- At-home massages to loosen tight muscles
- Curling up with a fuzzy blanket and a cup of herbal tea
- Taking a few minutes for mindful breathing
- Enjoying a nutritious smoothie free of stimulants
- Stretching your legs and arms for increased circulation
Post-Game Recovery
Wind down from the intensity of the big game with relaxing activities:
- Draw yourself a lavender Epsom salt bath
- Give yourself a pedicure
- Journal about your thoughts and feelings
- Listen to tranquil music as you fall asleep
- Limit alcohol and stimulant consumption
Super Bowl-Valentine’s Day Stress Relief
With Valentine’s Day falling close to the Super Bowl this year, Here are Three Tips for A stress-free Superbowl / Valentine’s Weekend:
Valentine’s Day Stress Relief Tips
- 🗓 Plan well in advance – Mark your calendar and purchase gifts, make restaurant reservations, etc., early to prevent last-minute scrambling.
- 💆 Book a couples massage – Treat yourselves to a relaxing spa day featuring side-by-side massages and soothing treatments.
- 🌹 Prepare a warm bath – Draw a hot bath sprinkled with rose petals and essential oils to unwind with your sweetheart. Light some candles, pour two glasses of wine, and soak in tranquility.
Also, remember to practice self-love. Treat yourself to chocolate strawberries, rose quartz facials, silk pillowcases, and all your favorite indulgence acts. You deserve it!
The Bottom Line
While the Super Bowl causes profound excitement, the Super Bowl stress can negatively impact fans’ cardiac health. Mitigate game day strain through relaxation techniques, mindful consumption habits, and tuning into warning signs. Your health should be the top priority, even during the year’s most thrilling sporting event.
