We live in a society where stress is at an all-time high. In fact, experts assert that chronic stress is the culprit behind many ailments and illnesses. You can probably relate, as the hustle and bustle of work and home life can get overwhelming at times. Learning how to cope with stress can help you live a more relaxed, peaceful, and joyful life.
There are positive and fun ways you can deal with everyday stress to feel happier! Here are 9 stress reduction techniques and tips to get you started:
1. Breathe Deeply
A simple technique for reducing stress is deep breathing, as you will physically feel your muscles relax as you do so. Focusing on your breath, as in meditation, is super helpful at reducing stress.
Meditation is simply focusing on the breath and quieting the mind. As a result, the body relaxes and stress melts away. Take time daily to meditate and pay attention to your breath for less stress and more peace.
2. Get The Body Moving
Another way to reduce stress is to get those endorphins going. As you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are hormones that cause you to feel better. Take time to exercise regularly to release stress buildup. Go for a brisk walk, play tennis, hit the gym, or do any other sort of exercise that you enjoy four to five times a week for optimal health.
3. Smile
Believe it or not, the simple act of smiling helps you feel better and relieve some stress. Try it. Smile big right now and notice how your thoughts and mood shifts for the better. Think about something funny. You can even have a hearty laugh if you want. Laughter is one of the best medicines for stress, so laugh often!
4. Make A “Not-To-Do” List
Make a list of things that you don’t really have to do, but you do them anyway. This is your “not-to-do” list.
What kinds of things stress you out? What do you waste time doing? Does staying up until midnight on a work night make you tired and stressed the next day? Put it on your list. Does saying yes to whomever asks you to do something stress you out? Put that on the list. Cut out what you can in your life that is not serving you well, as this can reduce stress significantly.
5. Plan A Fun Activity
Ever notice how an evening out can help you feel happy? Plan fun activities so that you can relax and have fun with friends or family. Go bowling. Go roller skating. Hit the movies. Plan a weekend away with your partner.
If you tie up your life with just work and the routine day to day things, stress will build up and may run you down. Be sure you add fun to your life regularly.
6. Have A Game Night
Get those games out and have a fun game night. Play board games or go high tech with PlayStation. Laughing and playing games is a great way to relieve stress and bond with friends and family.
7. Watch Funny Videos
Ever laugh so hard you cried? Didn’t you feel so much better afterward? If you want to relieve stress in a fun way, watch funny movies, comedians, or get on YouTube and search funny videos. Laughter is such an amazing stress buster!
8. Engage In A Hobby
If you’ve been thinking about starting up your hobby again or trying a new one, go for it! Taking time to do what you love is a great way to relieve stress. Take up painting, karate, woodworking, or whatever it is that sounds interesting to you. You’ll find the time you invest in your hobby makes you feel less stressed and happier.
9. Talk It Out
When you’re feeling maxed out, it may be time to reach out for help. Grab your phone and talk to someone you trust about what you’re stressed out about. This can help relieve the built-up tension and help you feel better.
Try these stress reduction tips!to keep your stress levels to a minimum. As you do, you’ll find yourself enjoying life more with a whole lot more peace.
