Seven Stress Relieving Habits

Stress relievers can help bring back calm and peace to your busy life. You don’t have to put a lot of time or thought into stress relievers,( but the more you do consistently, the better you will be at managing stress). Look at us! Building healthy habits!

Get moving. Almost any form of physical activity can act as a stress reliever. Ask yourself, do you like it (eg, walking, running, gardening, cycling, dancing, lifting weights, vacuuming….)? Then, do it, your body and brain thank you in advance.

Eat something healthy (preferably as a lifestyle choice). Eating a healthy diet is an important part of taking care of yourself. Aim to eat many fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Maybe a vibrant fruit salad with Greek yogurt and nuts for a fun and different dinner?

Try to limit unhealthier habits. These may include drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, smoking, eating too much, or using illegal substances. These habits can harm your health and increase your stress levels. (if you find yourself less able to cope without using too much of something, it may be time to ask for help – no shame! These substances can be and are addictive. Talk to your doctor, health care provider, counselor, trusted spiritual guide for assistance, or call 988)

Meditation, Mindfulness. You can practice guided meditation, guided imagery, mindfulness, visualization and other forms of meditation anywhere, at any time. Not sure where to start? Using an app like Calm or Headspace can help you get started.

Laugh, preferably out loud. A good sense of humor won’t necessarily cure your ailments. But it can help you feel better, and that can give you some space to find some healing. Even if you have to force a fake laugh, you will still benefit because your brain will release some juicy serotonin, cooling down that stress response. 

Connect, and not just online. When you’re feeling stressed and irritable, you may want to isolate yourself. Instead, reach out to family and friends and make social, in-person connections. Can’t make the IRL connection? Phone a friend. A good chat with a good friend who listens can make a difference.

Sleep. Ugh, stress can cause you to have trouble falling asleep. It’s a vicious cycle – too much to do — and too much to think about — your sleep can suffer. And when your sleep suffers, you start feeling more stressed! But sleep is the time when your brain and body recharge. Most adults need about 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.

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