Effective Stress Eliminators
Stress-busting activities for an unavoidable part of life
Alas, stress is a part of life, and as such, can’t be avoided entirely. However, there are stress-busting activities that will help alleviate the symptoms that indicate the existence of stress. Chronic stress can lead to poor overall health, relationships, and life experiences. Which is why many do what they can to get rid of it. Here are ten common sense, effective stress eliminators:
Exercise – Go for a walk, run, or ride your bike. Get yourself to the gym and lift weights or anything that gets your heart pumping. Exercise is an instant stress eliminator because it releases dopamine. Dopamine is the happy chemical that makes you feel good. Not only will you be less stressed, but you will also set yourself up to live a long and healthy life.
Practice Words of Affirmation & Gratitude – When you experience stress, pause for a moment, and tell yourself positive words of affirmation and think of a few things you are grateful for. Doing this allows you to take a break and hone in on positivity so your mind can relax.
Meditate – There are plenty of tools to help guide you through meditation, or you can simply do it on your own. There is no wrong way. The only important thing is to make sure there’s a room and/or space free of distractions. Keep your thoughts natural or only focus on your breathing to give your mind and body time to relax and detach from the world.
Talking with A Loved One – Love ones send feel-good chemicals throughout the body that provide instant stress relief. Surround yourself with people who genuinely love and care about you with no expecttion of anything in return. Express to them how you feel but be sure to show your gratitude and don’t take them for granted.
Playing with Pets – Play with your pet or go volunteer at your local SPCA or animal shelter. Studies show that playing with a pet or even petting them will reduce cortisol, the hormone responsible for stress.
Taking Breaks – Give yourself breaks and don’t feel guilty for taking them. It’s not natural or healthy for humans to be on the go 24/7. Don’t expect this of yourself or others.
Be with Nature – Get outside and get vitamin D and breath in the fresh air. Low Vitamin D levels are known to increase or worsen symptoms of stress and anxiety. The most effective and enjoyable way to ensure you get enough vitamin D is to allow your skin to soak in the sunshine. Also, it’s a good idea to supplement with Vitamin D, especially in the winter (https://www.bcm.edu/news/getting-adequate-vitamin-d-in-the-fall-and-winter).
Aromatherapy – Your senses are powerful tools and can alter your moods. For example, for many people, different scents can be calming or exciting. Studies suggest that aromatherapy alters brain waves and the behaviors they produce, ultimately reducing cortisol levels. Fragrances like chamomile and lavender are known to promote relaxation and sleepiness.
Eat A Healthy Balanced Diet – A poor diet can contribute to high levels of stress and lead to worsening symptoms of other conditions that can also make stress worse. Having a well-balanced diet full of essential nutrients is vital for a long and stress-free life. Avocados, berries, broccoli, and nuts and seeds are all great snacks known to have different properties to help reduce inflammation and other culprits of stress.
Enjoy A Hobby – Read, sew, draw, knit, or paint something. Enjoying tasks help distract you and provides a sense of happiness to eliminate any symptoms of stress.
Many of these activities can provide instant relief. But if you find yourself in situations where the stress is too overwhelming, no matter what you do, don’t be afraid to ask a qualified professional for help.
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If you liked this content, check out my article entitled, “Is Your Life Chaotic: How To Find Peace and Balance.”
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