Stress is a major part of modern life. We have all been “stressed out” at one time or another, and it seems like there is a never-ending list of things that cause us stress. Here are a few ways to relax a little bit and get rid of stress for a little while.
A very simple way to reduce stress is to start your day ten or fifteen minutes earlier. By giving yourself that extra few minutes each day, you’ll have time to sit and enjoy your cup of coffee or give you a head start on your commute so you won’t have to battle traffic, therefore reducing your stress level. That extra time also gives you a chance to catch up on things that might not have gotten done the previous day. It’s amazing what a few short minutes each day can do for your stress levels!
In order to keep your stress level under control, try screaming into a pillow. This will do wonders for stress relief, as long as you do not do it enough to hurt your vocal chords. Screaming has a calming effect that can almost be euphoric for some people.
Breaking big jobs into smaller chunks will reduce your stress in numerous ways! Most importantly this will make the job seem less overwhelming and more approachable; additionally you will be better prepared to actually complete the job in a timely manner. Failure to meet deadlines and fulfill duties is a major cause of stress so if you change your initial approach to a big job and can do it more efficiently you are one step ahead of the next one!
A good tip that can help you get your stress down is to start making sure you have enough time to get to places. There’s nothing more stressful than arriving late to work or to an important meeting. Making sure you get to places early or on time can help you keep your stress down.
Stress can be severe and take a toll on your health. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, depression, dizzy spells, a pulse that races, bad headaches, bad backaches or chronic neck pain, it is time to talk to your doctor about your options. Catching stress-related symptoms early helps you stay healthy and well.
A great tip that can help to you keep your stress levels down is to take a hot bath. The hot water will make you feel relaxed and you’ll forget about all of your troubles. Taking a hot bath can help keep your stress in check and it’s something you can do everyday.
One of the most effective methods for reducing stress is going for a long walk. Not only does this remove you from the stressful environment it also allows you to clear your mind by being distracted. If you go alone be sure to take some nice music with you to help you feel even better.
A good tip that can help you keep your stress down, is to plant your own garden. Not only is gardening a fun hobby to have, it will keep your stress levels down, as well. You’ll also be able to show off your garden to anyone you have over.
If you’re feeling stressed out, try going for a walk. Walking will increase the circulation in your body and get your blood flowing. It also gives you a chance to get some fresh air and to clear your head. A quick ten minute walk can help you feel much more relaxed.
One of the best ways to reduce or eliminate stress in your life is to learn how to say “no”. If you find yourself overwhelmed with too many commitments or constantly doing things you would rather not be doing, it could be because you have a problem turning people down when they ask for help. The best way to avoid this problem is to be honest with yourself and with others. If someone asks for help and you don’t have the time or energy, simply tell them no.
One great stress reliever is a massage. If you have a partner or close friend, see if they’re interested in trading massages. If not, pay to have one done professionally. Having the tension worked out of your muscles can have a profound effect on your state of mind and relieve a lot of stress.
Stand up for yourself when you need to. For instance, if you have a ton of work to get done before bed and a friend stops by to visit, tell them upfront that you have a busy night ahead and just don’t have time to talk. Or, if your child’s teacher asks you to help with the school play but your schedule is already full, tell the teacher that you appreciate being asked, but that you don’t have the time. Standing up for yourself is one of the best ways to reduce your overall stress.
Follow these tips any time you start to feel stressed. One or all of them may work for you at different times, so see which tips work. Remember, stress is temporary. Keep in mind that even your current stress will pass, and soon you’ll be feeling happy once again.