Stress can affect just about anyone and is caused by several different factors including work overload, death of a family member, job loss, financial problems and even crowds. When you are stressed out, you can feel nauseous, dizzy and tired. Although stress can be difficult to deal with at times, it can be managed. Here are 12 stress management tips you should follow.
Meditate
A simple way to manage your stress is to meditate every morning. According to the Mayo Clinic meditation can keep you calm and give you inner peace. Sit in a quiet place and concentrate on one object for about 15 minutes. After you are done mediating, you will have a clearer mind and feel much happier.
Listen to Soft Music
When you are feeling overwhelmed by a situation, stop and listen to soft music for 10 or 15 minutes. Light music will calm down your mind and reduce the levels of cortisol in your body. If you do not enjoy classical music, try just listening to ocean or nature sounds.
Eat the Right Foods
Your diet can affect your stress levels. Instead of reaching for ice cream or a piece of cake when you feel stressed, eat something nutritious like a piece of fruit or salmon. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been known to reduce anxiety symptoms. According to a research study conducted at Ohio State University, eating 12 to 15 ounces of salmon can reducde stress by more than 20 percent.
Go for a Walk
One of the easiest ways to relieve stress symptoms is to go for a walk. Getting some fresh air and walking around the neighborhood for at least 20 minutes can help you feel much calmer.
Get Enough Sleep
Not getting enough sleep will only add to your stress. When your body is tired from a lack of sleep, you can easily get irritated and stressed out. That is why you should try to get eight hours of sleep each night.
Call a Friend
Sometimes just calling a friend to talk can ease your anxiety. When you are feeling very overwhelmed, call a close friend and tell her about it. Talking to a close friend about your stress can help you feel better.
Do Yoga
Yoga is a popular exercise and doesn’t just increase flexibility and tone your muscles. It also boosts your mood and reduces your anxiety. If you are not familiar with yoga poses, take a class at your local gym.
Write in a Journal
When you feel stressed, write your thoughts down in a journal. Writing down your thoughts will help you express your emotions, so you will feel a lot better.
Breathe Deeply
Another easy way to manage your stress is to breathe deeply. The next time you feel anxious, take five minutes to focus on your breathing. Breathe in and breathe out slowly a few times.
Take a Hot Bath
Few things are more relaxing than a hot bath. Soaking in a hot tub for 30 minutes can definitely ease your anxiety and help you sleep better.
Think Positively
Try to think positively when you feel really stressed out. Instead of thinking bad thoughts, practice self-talk phrases like “I will get through this” or “I will be okay.”
Paint or Draw
Art therapy can be an effective way to soothe your anxiety. The next time you feel stressed, paint or draw a picture.