Stress is a normal part of life. There is good stress that will motivate you to do better. And then there is the bad stress for which, without employing stress management tips, may interfere with everyday life.
If you find that you are anxious for up to several weeks at a time, and your stress levels interfere with your school, work, and relationship, then it is time you explored some stress management tips. The most effective among these include the following
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Top 10 Effective Stress Management Tips
#1. Exercise
Exercise and physical activity help to improve mood. This is because it stimulates the release of feel-good hormones such as endorphins, which create euphoria and block pain. As a result, exercise leaves both your head and mind feeling good, and you will be less anxious.
A formal exercise program will do you good. However, if you can’t find time in your schedule for such a program, you can work exercise into your day in simple ways. For example, take the stairs instead of using the elevator, bike to places whenever you can instead of driving, and park a little distance away so you can walk.
#2. Eat Right
A healthy diet can level your moods and blood pressure, lessening the effects of stress. When you are stressed, you may be tempted to overindulge in sugary foods and junk. Fight the urge and eat right to help with your stress levels.
Experts have pointed to vitamin C, omega -3 fatty acids, and magnesium as some of the top nutrients that help reduce stress. Antioxidants help to protect against the damage that chronic stress can cause on your body and mind cells. In addition, there are antioxidant-rich foods and drinks from which you can choose to keep your diet healthy. For example, try green tea instead of drinking coffee and energy drinks.
#3. Get Enough Sleep
Most people dealing with stress also struggle with sleep problems. For some, the sleep problems are so severe, progressing into insomnia. In addition, not getting enough stress can add up to your levels of stress.
It is, therefore, no surprise that sleeping better is one of the most effective stress management tips . To help you sleep better, revise your sleep hygiene, stay away from electronics for a while just before bedtime, and avoid coffee and alcohol just before bed. Create and stick to a sleep schedule for the best results.
#4. Relaxation Techniques
From meditation to yoga, you can lower your stress levels with relaxation techniques. In addition, deep breathing exercises have the same effects. These relaxation techniques allow you to focus on the present, and you can free your mind from the stressors in your life.
Find a quiet and comfortable environment for your yoga and meditation. You can have as many sessions as you’d like each day.
#5. Spend Time with People You Love
Social support from your inner circle can help you through the most stressful of times. Being around friends and family gives a sense of belonging and self-worth. Studies have shown that loners and those who don’t spend as much time with anyone else are generally more prone to stress and depression. This time, especially if done doing something you enjoy, stimulates the release of oxytocin, which is a natural stress reliever.
#6. Aromatherapy
Some scents are especially soothing and can help you relieve your feelings of stress and anxiety. Aromatherapy also helps to improve sleep, which, as outlined, is great in itself as a stress management tip.
Also Read: Benefits of Transcendental Meditation
Among the most soothing scents, you can use for your aromatherapy sessions include lavender, rose, roman chamomile, frankincense, and geranium. Light yourself a scented candle as you enjoy your bath.
#7. Talk it Out
Tried and tested among stress management tips is talk therapy. Talk to yourself about your stressors and get rid of your anxiety with affirmations. Positive self-talk can greatly reduce your stress levels and impact how you see yourself.
Talking to a trusted friend or family friend can get you through stressful times. However, you can also benefit greatly from talking to a therapist. A professional will provide you with more insights about other approaches to help with your anxiety and stress.
#8. Laugh it Out
Laughing relaxes your muscles and relieves tension. It also relieves your stress response. Find something to laugh about as part of the stress management tips to help you.
Watch funny videos on the internet. Watch a comedy at the movies. Spend time with that funny friend who makes you laugh hard. Relive those wonderful memories every time you feel down and laugh.
#9. Listen to Music
When you are feeling overwhelmingly stressed, take some time to listen to some music. Music can be especially calming and creates a positive effect on both the body and mind. For example, music helps to reduce blood pressure, and experts have linked music to reduce cortisol levels.
Classical music is always a great choice as it is quite soothing. If it’s not something you enjoy, then, by all means, go for the type of music you enjoy best. But, again, you can get the same benefits from listening to nature and ocean sounds.
#10. Avoid Your Stressors
Yes. Avoid the things that trigger or stress you. Of course, this does not apply to all your stressors, but if you can avoid a specific stressor, then go ahead and do so.
If there is someone in your life that is always stressing you out, avoid them and limit how much time you spend with them. You may need to sever some ties and cut off some people from your life for your peace of mind. If your job is the number one stressor in your life and the situation is not getting any better, it’s time for you to start actively searching for a new one.
Bottom Line
If left unchecked, stress can affect every sphere of your life. These and more stress management tips can help you stay on top of your stress levels, so they don’t interfere with your schoolwork, performance at work, and relationships.
