Nowadays, it seems that every single one of us is dealing with a minor or a more intense form of stress. Whether you are experiencing stress because you are facing issues at your workplace, or maybe you just got into a fight with a friend, dealing with these feelings is not an easy job. This is why it is very important to find out what triggers the stress and try to find suitable solutions to cope with it. Most of us will find the answers if we look at our daily routine. Do you have at least 5 minutes to your self every day, or are you constantly preoccupied? Are you a fan of working out or meditating? Chronic stress is known for causing more serious issues such as heart problems and diabetes. Thankfully, there are a lot of ways in which you can reduce stress. In this article, I will only suggest a few that you may include in your daily routine.
1. Meditate
Meditation is a great ritual that you can incorporate into your morning routine, or just before you go off to bed. For best results, choose a time of the day when no one is around so you can enjoy the peaceful silence. If you are new to meditation, maybe you should do some research first or try guided meditation sessions that can easily be found on the internet. Meditating for at least five minutes a day boosts your mood and helps you focus throughout the day. It is also a great way to start off the day! In the long run, you will notice how much calmer you are.
2. Get your body moving
Exercise is one of the best ways to decrease stress in your life. Exercising for a minimum of fifteen minutes every day releases endorphins which further contribute to feeling good. Some people prefer hitting the gym, but others prefer lighter activities, such as taking a walk in nature. Whatever you choose, try to make it a part of your everyday routine. For example, you might consider walking home from work rather than taking a bus. Or, you can go jogging in the evening! Another great thing about exercising in nature is that you can enjoy the fresh air and the sunshine. Vitamin D, a vitamin that fights against stress, is obtained when our skin is exposed to the sun. If you feel like you do not have time to go to the gym, maybe try to invest in some high-quality dumbbells. Weights are excellent for any at home workout! Whether you go to the gym to do some sprints on the treadmill, or you decide to take a walk, any form of exercise is beneficial.
3. Get a massage
Feeling tense and tired? Maybe a massage is exactly what you need. If you feel like spending money on getting a professional massage would be too expensive for you, why don’t you try investing in a massage chair? Well-known companies like Relax for Life offer high-quality massage chairs for their potential customers. There is truly something special for everyone who wants to de-stress. The bottom line is that getting a massage could definitely alleviate tension and relax your muscles.
4. Get creative
A lot of people swear by art therapy. Art therapy is a great therapeutic technique that a lot of people who battle stress take up. So, why is art therapy so effective? Well, it is a great way to express your feelings on a canvas, rather than lashing out on someone. It helps people connect with others and communicate. Art therapy is an excellent way to increase self-esteem and self-awareness. If drawing or painting is not your thing, another thing that you might try is starting a gratitude journal. Keeping a diary is a great opportunity for you to write down your feelings at the moment, and re-read them later. You will be surprised at how helpful it is to put your emotions on a piece of paper.
5. Go to bed early
This tip is crucial for reducing stress. When we are not well rested, our cortisol levels tend to be much higher than normal. Cortisol is known as the main stress hormone which needs to be kept at an optimum level. A great way to keep cortisol levels at bay is to go to bed early and aim to get at least seven hours of sleep every night. If sleeping is an issue, try to get a nap during the day. After taking a quick nap, you will surely wake up refreshed and in a good mood. Remember to keep the naps short, because long naps might be counterproductive!
In conclusion, I hope you incorporate some of these healthy rituals into your daily routine. Although it might take a small amount of time to get used to, eventually you will notice a drastic change in your mood for the better!