7 Healthy Ways to Relieve Stress

Stress is a very real partner in life. No matter how well we think we are managing, stress is lurking around the corner, threatening to take over, and often does. The good news, just because stress tries to take over does not mean we must allow it to remain.

There are many ways to reduce stress, some healthy, some not. Creating a list of several healthy ways to alleviate stress will help you to navigate situations, taking control away from stress.

Breathe deep

If you find yourself in a stressful situation and can’t take a break, take 25 deep breaths, in through your nose, out through your mouth, and focus on one thing that makes you happy. After this short break, you will feel more focused, and be ready to tackle anything.

Go for a walk

Sometimes all you need is a change of scenery and some fresh air. Moving outside for just 15-minutes can chase your stress away.

Gather your thoughts

Sometimes the biggest culprit for causing stress is trying to focus on too many things at one time. When this happens, get a planner and a piece of paper. Write down any dates or appointments you need to remember. Then make a list of everything you need to do with a due date. Place the list in order of due dates, and then focus on only one task at a time. When you think of another task or date, pause, write it down, then return to the task you were working on.

Vent

Venting can help with stress so much. Just getting off your chest what is bothering you, upsetting you, or stressing you out can make you feel better. An added bonus, hearing your stress will allow you to see what is really something to focus on, or just a detail. Having someone else listen will give you another perspective on the situation and help you find a solution.

Do something for someone who can’t pay you back

One of the quickest ways to put stress into perspective is to volunteer, help someone, or do something nice. Play with a pet, pay for the person behind you, hold the door open. The goal is to do something nice for someone with no expectations of anything in return

Engage in Cardio

Not only does cardio get our blood pumping, it releases endorphins, dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in your brain. All of these make you feel good, stress less, and help you to focus. You don’t have to go to the gym to get these effects, just do something that raises your heartbeat for 30 minutes. Your body will do the rest.

Eat Healthy

As tempting as it may be to give in to a craving, eat sugar, or indulge in a specialty drink, reach for water, fruit, and vegetables instead. Junk food can cause us to feel good for a short time, but quickly we crash and often feel worse than we did before. In stressful situations, stay hydrated and eat whole foods. These will give your body what it needs to help you navigate the stress.

No matter where you are in life, no matter what you do, stress will find you. Be prepared with ways to manage stress and take control back.

Sincerely,

Sara O