Virtually any form of physical activity can act as a stress relief. Laughter releases endorphins that improve mood and lower levels of the stress-causing hormones cortisol and adrenaline. Laughter tricks your nervous system into making you happy. It's also OK and healthy to realize that you can't be 100% successful at everything at the same time.
Be aware of the things you can control and work to accept the things you can't control. Taking short breaks to walk several times a day is a powerful tool for channeling stress. Working out or participating in yoga, dance, or tai chi classes with friends also helps achieve step 2 to stay connected. Taking the time to relax every day helps to manage stress and protect the body from the effects of stress.
A short walk around the office or simply standing up to stretch during a break at work can offer immediate relief in a stressful situation. From yoga and tai chi to meditation and pilates, these mindfulness systems incorporate physical and mental exercises that prevent stress from becoming a problem. It can also help you sleep better, which is a big benefit when you've spent sleepless nights stressed by problems. Elizabeth Scott, PhD is an award-winning author, workshop leader, educator and blogger on stress management, positive psychology, relationships and emotional well-being.
Drip cold water on your wrists When stress hits, go to the bathroom and drop some cold water on your wrists and behind your earlobes. Another great stress reliever that can be used during tests, before going to sleep, or at other times when stress is physically exhausting you is progressive muscle relaxation (PMR). Home cortisol testing is a convenient and efficient way to manage stress and adapt accordingly. Reminding yourself of the evolutionary value of stress can improve your performance and, paradoxically, reduce feelings of stress, since you are not adding “stress stress” to the stress that the original trigger aroused.
Just remember to use earplugs to drown out the clipper, because too much loud noise can cause your stress rate to skyrocket again. Stretching Standing up for a quick stretch can relieve muscle tension and help you relax during a stressful workday. Once you know where your stress comes from a relationship, children, workload, a health problem, you can sometimes reduce or prevent stress. You may experience insomnia due to discomfort, stress from personal concerns, or the side effects of your medications.
