5 Proven Stress-Busters
5 Proven Stress Busters
Wondering about the most effective ways to combat stress? The following five tactics have been shown to effectively help us calm down when our stress levels start to spike.
#1 – Breathe deeply.
Stressed at work? Feeling like you’re going to snap at the kids? Take some deep, mindful breaths. Yes, you’ve heard it before, but there’s actually science behind this; deep breathing is the quickest, and possibly most effective, way to calm the nervous system. Take a few minutes to do some deep breathing exercises each day. Check out WebMD’s tips on deep breathing for stress relief.
#2 – Take a walk, mindfully.
Step away from the stress! Try taking a brief stroll to manage tension, and try to clear your mind by halting the running monologue in your brain and paying attention to the walk itself. Experts note that walking can help boost stress-busting endorphins, and refocusing your attention can help you calm the nerves and keep perspective.
Refocusing your attention here is the key! (Ruminating on your stressors probably won’t help calm the mind and body.) Observe the sights, pay attention to your breath and the feeling of your feet hitting the ground, and when your mind wanders, bring it back to the task at hand – putting one foot in front of the other. For more on walking mindfully, take a look at this overview from the Chopra Center.
#3 – Practice positive thinking/self-talk.
Because you’re good enough, you’re smart enough, and doggone it, people like you! In all seriousness, our inner voice can make a huge difference in how we feel, both mentally and physically. In fact, some of the health benefits of positive self talk are right up there with working out and eating right. (Don’t believe us? See what they Mayo Clinic has to say.) But turning that inner frown upside down isn’t always easy, so if you need a little guidance, try these tips from PsychCentral.
#4 – Prioritize making time for something you enjoy each day. (And don’t feel one bit bad about it.)
Having something to look forward or enjoy to helps us forget about our worries, and engaging in leisure activities has been shown to reduce feelings of stress. So whether it’s making dinner with your spouse, cheering on your kids’ at their sporting events, crafting, tinkering in the garage, or any other activity you look forward to, try to schedule something fun into your day.
We all know finding that time is easier said than done, so we’re trying some of these tips to help us enjoy a little more time to do what we want!
#5 – Be social.
Social support is a huge component of stress management. Socializing with others helps turn our attention outward, away from our own worries. Listening to what’s going on in others’ lives can help us keep our own stress in perspective. Our friends and family also help provide us with the perspective, guidance, reassurance, or support that helps make stressful situations feel less frustrating. And, ultimately, hanging out with the people we care about simply makes us happy and gives us something to look forward to.
Give it a try!
This week, when you feel stress knockin’ at your door, make it your goal to give one of these tactics a try! We hope it helps you feel a little more relaxed and happy.
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to replace medical or psychiatric advice. If you are struggling with stress and stress management, we encourage you to speak with a health professional.
