Music
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, grab your earphones and start listening to some soothing, calm music. This will help your brain and body to relax, as well as lower your blood pressure and levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) along the way.
Phone a friend
It’s not good to keep your worries and concerns bottled up! Ring a friend and get everything off your chest. Sometimes a reassuring chat is exactly what you need in times of stress.
Eat right
High levels of stress and poor diet are linked. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, sugary foods and fatty snacks will only worsen the symptoms. Try to look after your body with a range of fruit and veggies daily.
Laugh
Whether it’s putting on your favourite comedy or going for a fun night out with friends, having a laugh is important for managing stress. Not only does laughing reduce the levels of stress-causing hormones, but tricks your nervous system into making you happy.
Tea
Drinking tea—instead of coffee or energy drinks—for your morning pick-me-up will still provide you with a small dose of caffeine, without causing your blood pressure to spike. Tea also contains healthy antioxidants and can have a calming effect on your nervous system.
Exercise
Exercise is a great way to let off some steam. Whether it’s for a minute or an hour, exercise can battle stress symptoms immediately and release mood-improving endorphins along the way. Yoga is a great form of physical and mental exercise that can help you become more mindful, stopping stress before it becomes a big problem.
Sleep
Lack of sleep causes stress and stress causes a lack of sleep—it’s a vicious cycle! Whether it’s abstaining from electronic devices before sleeping or hopping into bed a bit earlier, getting 7 to 8 hours of shut eye a day is crucial if you want to break the cycle.
Take a deep breath
It sounds simple, but when you’re feeling overwhelmed, just take a few deep breaths. It will oxygenate your blood, centre your mind and help you relax!
WHAT’S YOUR STORY?
Are you an expert at managing your stress levels? Share your secrets in the comments below!
