Thinking you have to put oodles of time aside to deal with stress? Think again with these tried and true tips. Here are seven that are guaranteed to help you on the road to LESS stressing and MORE living.
1. HANG IT UP!
Put your phone away when you come in the door. According to a Stress in America survey, one in five Americans believe constant phone checking is a contributor to stress. The more you check, the more stressful you find technology. The solution? Check your phone at the door.
2. MAKE A DATE WITH YOUR BFF
Make a date with your best friend. Go out for dinner, take a walk, see a funny movie, listen to some music or just talk over a cup of coffee. The happiest people are those who have cultivated true meaningful friendships with “real” friends. There, now you have something special to look forward to after your work day.
3. BREATHE WITH YOUR BELLY
Take one long, deep breath, a breath that goes right down to your belly. Now breathe out slowly through your mouth…like you were fogging up a pane of glass. Focus on your shoulders relaxing, your jaw relaxing, your brow relaxing…beautiful! There, don't you feel better now?
4. WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?
Challenge negative self-talk. According to Psychology Today, negative self-talk can lead to stress and depression. The more you tell yourself you’re a failure, the odds are that you’ll begin to believe it. Conversely, positive self-talk can most certainly lead to a happy life filled with satisfaction and fulfillment.
5. SHOW THOSE PEARLY WHITES!
Just the act of putting a big ol’ smile on your face creates positive psychological/physiological changes and reduces your stress hormone levels. Smiling is free, it’s contagious and it’s available on demand! BONUS: It will add 7 years to your life!
6. MUSIC, MUSIC, MUSIC
Play, sing, dance! Need I say more?
7. PICTURE THIS
Take a moment to look at a picture or screen saver of someone or something important in your life. When I am feeling stressed, I’ll often glance at pictures of my loved ones or my favourite memory. What’s really important is very quickly put into perspective.
Having a go-to mantra is another effective way to manage stress. Find out how the words calm blue ocean help me deal with trying situations.