Stress is actually a normal part of life but if you don't get a handle on your stress levels, it can seriously inhibit your ability to do your job, spend time with your family or be healthy. It is very important to be self-reflect and be aware of any current or potential stress. However, just knowing that stress is a problem, doesn't always fix it! You sometimes need to work very hard to reduce your stress level and feel better. Stress can cause mental, emotional and physical issues. It can suppress your immune system and cause many health problems. Here are some tips on how you can be happier and feel healthier.
MORE YOGA, LESS DRAMA – As we all know, modern life can be stressful. Yoga has been shown to be a very effective stress reducer. The practice of yoga involves stretching body, forming different poses and keeping breathing slow so the body becomes relaxed and energized. Also, in yoga, you may incorporate meditation or relaxation. Meditation can be a great way to relax, especially if you are under a lot of stress. It takes only 15 to 30 minutes a day, which is very affordable. Just find a comfortable place, close your eyes and give yourself some silent. Mindfulness meditation involves sitting comfortably, focusing on your breathing, and bringing your mind’s attention to the present. The key is staying focused and not letting any distractions enter your mind.
MUSIC IS YOUR THERAPY – Listening to music can have an extremely calming effect on your mind and body. It can be very relaxing and induce a harmonious state of mind. Music therapy is very helpful in decreasing anxiety associated with medical procedures. Music reduces stress and anxiety significantly reduces emotional distress. You can use music in your daily life and achieve many stress relief benefits.
GOOD FRIENDS ARE GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH - Social health is an important aspect of wellness and your physical health. If you've had a stressful day, you will get rid of the tension faster by meeting up with friends and talking about your problems. Having a supportive social network has been associated with lower levels of stress and greater levels of happiness. Moreover, having friends will keep you healthier. There is some evidence to suggest that people with close friends have a greater ability to fight disease. So get together with some friends so you can celebrate the good times and get support during the bad.
EAT BETTER, FEEL BETTER – If you want to use diet to reduce stress, you need to stay away from refined sugar and caffeine (coffee, tea, and chocolate). Some coffee during the day is a good idea, but too much caffeine will make you nervous and anxious. Junk food can make us depressed, too. When we are going through periods of stress, we need to utilize more nutrients, especially the B vitamins because the B vitamins affect our nervous systems. Moreover, foods including blueberries, salmon, and almonds are especially effective for stress-reduction. If you’re stressed out, reflecting on what you’re eating is a great thing to do. Healthy foods can improve your mood and give you long-lasting energy to endure hard times.
IT' S TIME FOR BATH AND CANDLES (JASMIN, ORANGE, LAVENDER, VALERIAN) - Taking a long and warm bath can be calming for the mind. Fill your bathtub, add your favorite bath salts, soaps and decorate it with candles. Also, the smells of essential oils can affect the brain and causes feelings of relaxation, calmness, and love. The best oils for stress relief are lavender, cypress, and rosemary. Lavender oil can be found in bath salts and massage oil. Aromatherapy can reduce the perception of stress and aromatherapy massage can have some beneficial effects on anxiety and depression. Candles are great for aromatherapy and lighting a candle is probably one of the simplest ways to create a nice feel. Aromatherapy can boost the relaxation benefits of meditation.
SWEAT OFF THE STRESS - Exercise helps to reduce stress and only you only need 20 minutes a day to experience benefits. No matter what your fitness level may be, the key is to move your body every day. You need to identify the type of exercise that you most enjoy. Exercise also prevents obesity among other health problems. It is one of the best ways to reduce stress. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that help you get your mind off your problems and clears your head.
PRIORITIZE SLEEP AND IMPROVE IT - Sleep is the most important natural stress reducer. Too little sleep leaves you irritable and on edge. So try to find the right balance that gives you the feeling you are ready for the day. Get your eight hours in, no matter what, or, take a nap during the day if you missed some sleep the previous night. Promote better sleep by establishing bedtime rituals. Also, some foods can also promote sleep, such as bananas and peanuts but avoid having a large meal close to bedtime.
Contributed by Olivera, a lawyer who is constantly on the move, traveling between Europe, the USA, and Australia. She is married to a handsome IT guy who inspires her to live an active and positive lifestyle. She is in love with nature, traveling, and books. Writing is her way to share various ideas and thoughts about positive thinking, healthy living and helping others to do the same.
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