Today is National Stress Awareness Day. Life can be very overwhelming and the stress of everyday can begin to take a toll on your mental health. Everyone deals with stress it’s just triggered by different experiences or events for different people. Too much stress can lead to health problems and it’s very important to try to find a way to manage it.
Today I’m sharing some simple ways to cope with your stress. Try incorporating one or two of these ideas in your routine to help lighten your load.
- Incorporate excercise into your routine
Take a hike, ride a bike, take a swim, take a dance class, etc. It doesn’t have to be daily or an hour long work out but adding some movement into your weekly routine will help to decrease your stress levels.
2. Get 8 hours of sleep
Starting your day off right begins with getting quality rest the night before. Getting proper rest will allow you to start your day with plenty of energy. If you’re having trouble sleeping because you’re up worrying late at night try some melatonin. Also try turning the tv off, get off your phone by a certain time, etc..
3. Candles or essential oils
Using essential oils or burning a scented candle may help reduce your feelings of stress and anxiety. The aromatherapy line from Bath and Body Works is my absolute favorite.
4. Organize your thoughts
When your thoughts are scrambled in your mind things can be very overwhelming. Write down what you wish to accomplish for the day. You may see that your list isn’t really that long. You may also realize you just can do it all in one day and need to prioritize what is actually important.
5. Take a self care day
Dedicate a Sunday to just pure relaxation. Or better yet take a day of PTO to relax and do nothing. Taking the day to recharge and get reenergized will help put you in a better head space.
6. Watch a funny movie
Sometimes you’re wound up too tight and you just need to laugh a little. Put on a funny movie as a distraction. You’ll be surprised how it will take your mind off of your worries.
7. Learn how to say NO!
Sometimes the stress of other obligations, commitments or engagements can be too much. You can’t be everywhere at the same time and you can’t agree to do everything. I know it can be hard to do but sometimes you need to tell people no. It’s never a good thing to over extend yourself.
8. Stretching or Yoga
I feel so relaxed and zen after doing some light stretching and yoga. Both activities can help loosen any tight back or neck muscles. There are a ton of free videos available online.
9. Guided meditation
Guided mediations are a perfect way to relax your mind and find focus. Soothing music or spoken affirmations help to provide a peaceful thought process or mental escape. Guided mediations are also a great way to end the night if you’re having trouble sleeping.
10. Clean/Declutter
Working and living in a clean and organized spaced is so much more relaxing. The act of cleaning and decluttering can also take your mind off of your worries. Focus on the spaces where you spend the most time.