Sometimes, it feels like you simply don’t have control of the stress that’s happening in your life.
Career, family, and other responsibilities in life can be hectic and demanding. Sometimes you just might feel like you want to be a superhero and disappear, evading the stress of life. But you don’t have to let stress control you – there are ways that you can take control and manage the stress that threatens to control you!
Looking for ways to reduce stress is the key. Listen to your body’s signals and learn when you’re stressed. Respect your body and develop a tool belt of relaxation techniques to keep you at peace throughout the day. If you live in a constant state of stress, you might not remember what it feels like to be in a fully relaxed state. And not to mention, the longer you are stressed, the more you are putting your health at risk.
Journaling
The first key to controlling and reducing stress is identifying what the stressors are. If there aren’t obvious things that you can point out that stress you out on a daily basis, start a journal that can help you identify what is regularly popping up as a stressor. If something stresses you out, write it down. If you keep a log, you’ll be able to go back to it later and see if there is a pattern as to what’s triggering your stress.
Procrastinating
Stop putting off important tasks.
Putting off important items such as getting a will, getting health insurance for your family, or getting a life insurance policy can loom over you, causing stress that doesn’t have to be there. Don’t procrastinate. Do what you need to do quickly. It may take some time initially, but it’s a lot better to get it done in the long run instead of letting it linger.
Read
Reading is a great way to rest your body while keeping your mind engaged. There’s nothing better than curling up with a good book with a cozy blanket in a comfortable place. With reading you can literally escape your day by getting wrapped up into another world. It’s ok to run off to an exotic island or stay on the edge of your seat with a mystery or love story!
Be Nice To Yourself
Sure, we all know the benefits of being kind to others. It’s the right thing to do, right? But how about being kind to yourself? Is that even possible? Of course it is! Give yourself a break. Don’t beat yourself up at work for making a mistake. Give yourself an extra measure of grace. Treat yourself to a new haircut, a new outfit, a new CD or book, or something as simple as a coffee on the way to work. Treating yourself with the same amount of care that you would give another person is equally important.
Pets
Hanging out with animals has proven to reduce stress – even blood pressure! So, get a dog or a cat. Or if that’s not your thing, get a bunny or hamster. Something furry that you can play with, take care of, and yes – even talk to! Maybe a pet isn’t something you’re willing to do yet. That’s ok. Volunteering at your local animal shelter is a great way to give love and get some unconditional love back!
Use Your Senses
Are you a visual person? Surround yourself with sights that put you at ease. Find colors or pictures that bring you a sense of peace. Enjoy the beauty of nature and go for a nature walk.
Do you respond well to sounds? Listen to music that can calm your spirit, or buy a small water fountain or wind chime that can soothe you.
Or, if you’re inspired by smells, find scents that calm or comfort you, such as lavender oils (proven to help induce sleep).
Love food? Treat yourself to your favorite comfort food. This isn’t an excuse to indulge in junk food, though! Instead, indulge moderately – a small piece of chocolate, a piece of gum, a cup of your favorite herbal tea.
Or, inspire yourself to relax with a comfortable blanket, warm bath, a professional massage, or your favorite pair of soft pants.
Find a way to let go of the stress of the day. Embrace relaxation! If you’re calm inside, you will exude a sense of peace and relaxation on the outside. This will do wonders for your relationships and for others you come into contact with. Take a deep breath and focus on de-stressing.
It can be done!