7
Tips to Relieve Stress
Stress is a normal part of
life and mild stress can actually be helpful. But for millions of
people, stress can seem insurmountable. If it is not handled and
dealt with properly, it can cause much more serious ailments like
panic attacks, anxiety and depression. There are many causes of
stress and each one of us handles it differently. Financial worries,
loss of a loved one, a demanding job and much more can cause varying
degrees of stress.
Below are some ideas for
relieving stress and getting back on the road to health:
- Breathe: This may seem simplistic,
but it does work. Close your eyes and slow your breathing. Take deep
breaths in and exhale through your mouth. Think calming thoughts and
picture yourself in your favourite spot on the beach or in the
middle of a forest surrounded by nature. By focusing on your
breathing, your heart rate slows and helps quiet your mind. Do this
as long as necessary until you feel calm and relaxed.
- Yoga: This is a known stress
reliever and will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed. Yoga can
help you learn to breathe and give you the inner strength you need
when life becomes challenging.
- Exercise: Keeping up with an
exercise routine at least three times a week will relieve stress and
release endorphins which are known to increase your mood. If you
exercise outside by going for a walk you’ll also benefit from
extra vitamin D via the sun. It is hard to feel stressed on a warm,
sunny day.
- Journal: Keep a journal of your
daily activities and how you feel about your life. What would your
perfect day look like? How would you like to change things? You will
find as you write down your thoughts and questions, you will begin
to write down some answers as well.
- Keep your distance: Are certain
people stressing you out? Your boss? Your mother? You may need to
keep your distance from whoever is causing you stress, although this
is not always possible. If your job is causing problems, it may be
time to look for a new one. No amount of pay is worth having a
miserable life for.
- Change your thinking: Sometimes
you just need to change your perspective on things. If your boss
yells at you, be thankful that you have a job that allows you to pay
your bills. If your kids are whining and complaining, remember that
there are millions of people in this world that would love to have
children but can’t. Chances are there are people out there that
are worse off then you are. Be thankful for what you have.
- Keep healthy eating habits: Eating
overly processed foods have been linked to stress and depression.
Opt for healthy fruits and vegetables instead. Choose whole grains
and foods that are rich in antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids.
The next time you feel overwhelmed by a
stressful situation or you feel like you just can’t take your life
a moment longer, stop what you are doing and try one of the above
exercises. Give yourself a time out and concentrate on getting calm
again. You may have to try more than one technique to find one that
works best for you. Don’t give up; remind yourself that you have
the inner strength to overcome whatever it is that is challenging
you.
