If you feel like you’re always rushed, never get a break, don’t have enough time, and are dissatisfied with your relationships, job, etc., chances are you’re stressed. Stress has become so normal that most of us don’t even recognize it. Stress can also manifest as physical symptoms, such as stomachaches, headaches, chest pains or back pains. Though people often believe they’re too busy to reduce their stress level, it’s important and possible to practice stress management. Managing stress preserves the body’s nervous system, reduces disease-causing inflammation, and creates a sense of confidence and hope that you can handle life. Practice the following stress relief techniques. Any of them will work at any given moment.
- Slow down. Whatever you’re doing- whether you’re combing your hair or taking a walk- just slow down and pay more attention to what you’re doing. Decelerating the pace of everyday activities is the easiest way to relieve stress.
- Breathe deeply. When people are stressed they tend to breathe tensely and shallowly. Slowing down and breathing more deeply can reset your nervous system, producing a sense of calm. The very act of breathing more deeply into one’s belly will reduce stress instantly. The technique is simple: Breathe in a little more deeply and expand your belly when you exhale.
- Practice gratitude. Think of things you’re grateful for. Think of positiveness, not just negativeness. Expressing gratitude can have multiple benefits, including improved mood and better physical health.