In our fast-paced world, it can be impossibly difficult to manage stress. Stress is everywhere. From work to social media it sometimes feels like there is no escape. Try these 9 strategies to start lowering your stress levels.
1. Move.
It might be the last thing you want to do after a stressful day, but exercise is proven to improve your mood and lower stress levels. Go for a walk around the neighborhood, follow an online yoga video, or just do some jumping jacks while you wait for dinner to cook.
2. Talk.
Sometimes we just need to complain. Talking with a trusted friend about how overwhelmed you’re feeling will make you feel seen and appreciated. Chances are, your friend is feeling overwhelmed too and might have some tips for you.
3. Waste Time.
Set aside time each week just to waste. When every moment is scheduled and productive, it’s no wonder we feel stressed. Curl up with a good book, watch a movie or play your favorite video game. It doesn’t have to be a productive use of your time. It just has to be fun.
4. Self Care.
Pampering yourself is a great way to release the stress of the day. Apply a face mask, take a long hot bath, paint your nails or get your hair cut. Taking care of yourself is necessary for a productive life. Have an at-home spa night and relax.
5. Nature.
Spending time in nature is proven to soothe stress. Take a drive along the beach or a walk in the woods. Feeling close to nature takes you out of the day to day stress of your life and lets you live in the moment.
6. Meditate.
Meditation has been proven to lower blood pressure and improve overall quality of life. It might seem impossible to slow your thoughts down enough to meditate, but even five minutes is the start of a practice that will change your life.
7. Remember Why.
It is so important to remind ourselves why we put ourselves through all this stress. Maybe you work hard to support your family, maybe you have a high-pressure job that you love. Sometimes in our day to day we lose sight of why we do what we do. Writing down your reason for working so hard can help you focus on the positive when you’re feeling stressed.
8. Sleep.
Improving your sleep habits will work wonders for your stress levels. Getting a solid eight hours each night will help you feel rested from the day before and ready for the day ahead. Going to bed at the same time every night and waking up at the same time every day can help you develop a consistent sleep schedule.
9. Eat.
Sometimes we are so busy we forget to take basic care of ourselves. Eating nutritious food will ensure you are ready to deal with whatever life throws at you.
Sometimes there is nothing we can do to make our lives less hectic, but we can develop strategies to manage our stress. These 9 tips are a great place to start.