Quick Ways to Reduce Stress

One thing many doctors tell their patients daily is that they need to reduce their stress levels. Stress can affect our health in many different ways, and almost all of them are negative. But while it may sound easy, it can be very difficult to actually reduce stress. Here are some tips to quickly reduce your stress level and, as you do so, make yourself happier and healthier.

1. Take a few deep breaths and just do nothing for a few minutes. It might sound simple, but if you just allow yourself to step outside the busy, stressful work for just a moment, it can really help. If you’re at work, step out of your office to get a drink of water or, on the other hand, close your office door and shut out the stress for a few minutes.

2. Taking a walk can also help. While it may not always be an option, if you can, get up and leave the stressful environment (and the stress) behind. You don’t have to walk to any particular location, but just wander and let your mind relax. If your job is stressful, try taking a short walk during your lunch break to help relieve stress.

3. Turn on some relaxing music. There are some CDs specifically aimed at stress relief. If these particular music choices are not your favorite, pick some that are. Music is one of the best ways of calming your mind after a stressful day.

4. Don’t forget to sleep. Sleeping relaxes your entire body and can help with headaches, body aches, and other illnesses. If you don’t get enough sleep at night, you may find your day being even more stressful. Even a short, 15 minute nap can be enough to re-energize your body and help you go about your day more easily. Don’t rely on things like coffee to help you wake up—get a good amount of sleep so you don’t need to drink as much caffeine. The crash from caffeine can add to the stress.

5. Pick up your favorite type of novel and read for a few minutes. Reading is a good way of getting your mind off of a stressful situation. It doesn’t even have to be a book—pick up a magazine or newspaper if you like. Just do something that distracts your mind.

6. Exercise. Many people recommend yoga as a way of reducing your stress level, but any form of exercise will do. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins and other chemicals that help affect your mood and can relax you. Exercising also has the benefit of making your body more fit and tone, which will give you more energy during the day. This can help with stress as well since you won’t feel so burnt out and overworked all of the time.

7. Take a shower or bath. This can be a great way of relaxing after work. A hot, relaxing shower or bath will soothe your muscles and leave you feeling refreshed.

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