10 Ways To De-stress Right Now
It’s no secret that life, at times, can be downright stressful. Between finances, career goals, relationships and meeting your own personal needs it’s crystal clear that life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. When you’re at the point where pulling your hair out, crying until you have no more tears or eating a whole pizza by yourself sounds like the best stress cure try these alternate remedies:
1. Take A Walk
Taking a 10 minute walk will not only help clear your head but it will aid in reducing stress hormones. If possible, walk in a park or other green space because greenery helps to put your body in a state of meditation. If you are not in a situation where you can get up and go outside at the very least, crack a window. Sunlight triggers the release of serotonin in your body and acts as a mood booster.
2. Meditate
If you are under a lot of pressure consider meditation your new best friend. Research has shown that meditation can be helpful in lowering heart rate and blood pressure. A huge benefit of meditating is that it’s pretty simple to do. Finds a comfortable place, close your eyes, relax your muscles and focus on one thing. Being mindful is key. You can do this for as little as minutes to experience mediations true benefits and if you’re feeling extra zen soak in as much time as you would prefer.
3. Drink Green Tea
Sigh, the soothing flavor of green tea. According to research, green tea reduces the damaging impact of stress on the brain while increasing calming chemicals in the body. Also, avoid caffeinated beverages as they are said to worsen the stress response.
4. Mood-Boosting Foods
If you crave carbohydrates when you’re stressed, anxious or tense then congratulations – you’re just like the rest of us! It is said that these foods can have a soothing effect for some women. So, if you’re on the path to no return and need to indulge in instant satisfaction at least watch your portion size.
5. Unplug ASAP
With technology constantly being an outlet that is telling us who to be and where to be it is imperative to take the time to unplug. Walking away from your computer every hour, putting your phone in another room while you eat dinner or turning it on airplane mode while at the gym – whatever route you prefer is up to you, just make a valid effort to take it.
6. Socialize
The best stress reliever can be as simple as surrounding yourself with your friends or family who provide you with a sense of purpose and fun!
7. Make A Change
Sometimes you need to take the time to suck the poison out of your life. Whether the main source of your stress is coming from a job or a physical presence the best way to obtain stress relief may be to remove yourself from the source of tension.
8. Turn Up The Tunes
Whether you’re getting ready for a work day or stuck in traffic, listening to music can decrease negative or anxiety filled emotions. In those moments where you are preparing for a tough situation or wanting to decompress turn up the tunes and get lost in the lyrics.
9. Exercise Daily
In the words of NIKE – Just Do It. Make it a priority to set aside time each day to get a work out. Your boosted ENDORPHIN'S and reduced stress levels will thank you. Oh and so will your booty!
10. Be Kind To Yourself
When stress is weighing down on you it can be tempting to put yourself last and that is the last thing you should do. Be kind to yourself by prioritizing your relationships, work load, physical activity, sleep and overall health. Showing thanks to those close to your heart and for the positive elements in your life has a strong calming affect. Set a daily positive affirmation on your phone or give yourself a pep talk – whatever it takes!
