Stress is a killer. Everyone knows that. However, many of us are at a loss as to how we can actually de-stress or find true peace of mind. It’s vital that we all take time to understand the triggers that cause us to be stressed and that we do the things that are able to take us out of stressful situations, see the bigger picture, and live a life that is more fulfilled and less anxious.
Here we have put together a guide on how to destress:
Breathing deeply
Connecting the body and brain and listening to your breathing can really help you to de-stress. Anthony Robbins says that the main reason most people feel stressed is simply because they haven’t learnt how to breathe deeply. The practice of deep breathing is seen in meditation, yoga and many activities that are proven to release stress from the body.
Listen to some music
Any music that lowers the heart rate and blood pressure can decrease the stress hormones in the body. Classical music and jazz can certainly help you to de-stress and create a new neurochemical balance in the brain and the body.
Get some exercise
Sometimes, when we are stressed, the last thing we want to do is exercise. However, stress is a natural reaction preparing us for activity. Exercises help release the correct hormones that will trigger the feel-good factor. By getting moving you really can de-stress even if you don’t feel like you want to do exercise. It’s important to get into the habit of exercising when you feel stressed.
Meditation
Turn off the lights, light a candle, take some time for yourself and do some meditation exercise until your heart is beating and the air is flowing in and out of your lungs. You’ll be able to understand your thoughts better and let them pass through your brain. Let go and relax. Meditation can change the biochemistry in your body and the neurochemistry in your brain, so use it wisely and often.
Laugh a lot
Laughing has been proven to reduce stress hormones in the body. Take time to watch comedy shows, laugh with friends, and enjoy the stress-reducing benefits of a bit of fun.
In addition to all the above, investing in health insurance, should you take ill, will take the stress away from worrying about having to wait for a doctor or hospital appointment.
Here are some places to go to de-stress
Go to the park
Spending some time outside is a great way to de-stress. For example, take your lunch break in the park with a picnic or go for a long walk around the park. The fresh air in nature will help you to gain perspective and refresh, helping calm you.
Get out into nature
The positive benefits of spending time in nature can be immense. We are all animals, and by reconnecting with our natural environment we decrease stress. Get out into the great outdoors and take a walk, head to the zoo or go to a farm. It’s good fun and it can actually help you to de-stress.
Relax at the beach
Not everyone finds the beach a relaxing place to go, but relaxing on a hammock, taking a windsurfing lesson, or splashing in the water can be a great way to chill out. If you’re lucky enough to have the weather and the beach nearby, why not head over there? Alternatively, you could go to a spa and enjoy the same benefits.
Head out for shopping
Shopping has been shown to help many people to reduce stress. There is actually a term for it now: retail therapy. It helps a lot of people feel a sense of control when they shop and this may well be at the heart of the stress-reducing effects of shopping. Make sure you remain in control as you shop, as it will just increase stress if you ever spend.
Go for a cup of tea with family
Sometimes, putting some perspective in life and de-stressing is as simple as having a chat and/or a cup of tea with family and friends. Choose who you call carefully and pick someone that is going to help your mental state rather than hinder it.
So, there you have it: five options to help reduce the stress in your life. Look after yourself and you’ll be able to be more productive in your life. Build some good habits and make sure that life is fun and that you take an approach that is positive and proactive to it.