Reducing stress sounds like an easy task until we actually have to do it. For some of us, rest and relaxation go hand in hand while others have a hard time just letting ourselves come to a complete halt, without thinking of all the things we’ve done or the things we anticipate doing. But stress-management and self-care don’t have to be a daunting task that causes more anxiety than it can cure. The most important part of it all is acknowledging that you not only need but deserve stress relief, especially after all the hard work you put in. We’ve taken the guesswork out for you and found the best 4 ways to relieve stress and help get you feeling well-rested and rejuvenated.
Physical Activity
Prayer, Meditation or Self-Reflection
Whether you believe in a higher power or a religious God, setting time aside to stop the world around you and focus on the present can have exceptional benefits on the mind, body and spirit. You do not have to be a “super-spiritual” person to benefit from any of these practices. Typically, the hardest part is actually turning off your brain to focus only on the present moment. With practice, this will come to you easier the more you do it. After some time, you’ll feel clear-headed and lighter, receiving clarity and the ability to take the day as it is.
A Treat Yourself Day
Whether you’re treating yourself to a spa-like facial or full body massage, putting your mental health and overall well-being first is important. Oftentimes, we get so caught up with work, errands and bills that we forget to make ourselves a priority in our own lives, neglecting the things we need most. Making ourselves an appointment for a good rub down, facial or even a trip to the hair or nail salon forces up to stop and drop everything.
Life-Long Practices
Acceptance, patience, and gratitude are all principals of life we should learn to embrace and apply to our everyday lives. Easier said than done, it may take some effort to fully accept and understand that we cannot control situations or outcomes, no matter what. We can, however, control how we accept and react. Being more mindful of how we receive news can make all the difference in how we feel and relieve stress that is unnecessary or unwanted.
Of course, all individuals are different and some techniques may work better than they do for others. What’s most important is actually taking the time to find what works best for you and work that into your everyday life.