By Hallie Vipperman***
It is so important to incorporate stress relief into your daily routine. Stress is unfortunatley just part of life and it can be caused by lots of factors — work, relationships, finances, and health concerns.
While some stress is normal, excessive stress can lead to negative effects on our mental and physical health. So it’s essential to learn how to manage daily stress to prevent it from overwhelming us.
Here are five suggestions to keep that stress at bay.
Get out and move
Whether you are a frequent gym goer, enjoy streaming workout videos online, or enjoy outdoor fitness activities, all of these give you the opportunity to move.
Going on a walk with a friend or alone can help to clear your mind and reduce stress levels.
A stressful day is very draining and tiresome, but after exercising even just a little bit, you will feel less stressed and more likely to get a better night’s sleep.
Take a breather and adjust your focus
A stressful day normally consists of constant distractions and a go go go mentality, making it hard to remain calm and easy to lose sight of how important it is to stay collected.
Taking a few minutes to focus on your breath by engaging in deep breathing exercises can help calm your mind and promote relaxation.
Adjusting your focus will allow for a change in mindset that will not only help to recenter after a stressful day, but help prepare your mind for the next.
Unplug
Technology keeps us connected to so many aspects of our lives.
Although devices enable us to connect with friends, family, and the world around us these devices also keep us constantly connected to work and school.
This can hinder an individual’s work-life balance, something so necessary to maintain a good mindset.
Disconnecting from your phone and computer can help to recharge and reduce mental fatigue.
After a stressful day do not hesitate to close that laptop and place your phone on do not disturb, everything will be waiting for you in the morning.
Spend time with loved ones
Spending time with friends and family can relieve a great amount of stress.
It is important to value the moments we have with the ones we love, especially during stressful times.
Surrounding yourself with these people in your life can make a hard day easier.
Spending time with family and friends can help you feel more connected and supported.
Whether it’s a phone call or a dinner date, make time for the people who bring joy and positivity in your life.
Write it down
Journaling is a safe and effective way to relieve stress and manage emotions.
Writing your thoughts and feelings down on paper can help you gain clarity and perspective, as well as reduce anxiety and tension.
Journaling provides a private outlet, giving you the space to express yourself freely without judgment or criticism.
Writing in a journal can help to release pent-up emotions and tension making it easier to relax and unwind after a stressful day.
Journaling also promotes self-reflection and mindfulness which can serve as a tool to ease your stress in the present moments and learn how you may combat stress in the future.
CougarBuzz 