Figuring out ways to de-stress yourself can sometimes be a challenge. Trying to undo the tension can just add more stress if you take the wrong approach. Below you will find recommended tips to help you manage your stress without visiting the doctor:
1. Laugh – Laughter is truly the best medicine. It has been proven to lower tension, as well as improve blood flow and the health of your heart. Laughter also raises the level of serotonin in the brain and in addition, produces endorphins, which makes us feel relaxed and happier.
2. Exercise – Great way to manage stress and very cost effective! A 20 minute walk or jog around your block can yield up to 12 hours of improved mood. Once you discover a physical activity that you enjoy exercising becomes easier and more natural.
3. Breathe – Controlling your breathing patterns can lower your blood pressure significantly in 30 seconds. Once you learn to control your breathing you will feel healthier and your stress will dissipate.
4. Stretch – Regardless of where you are, you can always find a place to get away and stretch out your body when you’re feeling stressed. Lying on the floor is not necessary, simply sitting in your chair or standing while stretching can help control stress.
5. Think Positive – Be kind to yourself and think positive! Thinking negative thoughts only makes you feel bad and increases stress. Be your biggest fan and compliment yourself daily.
6. Socialize – Spending time with family or friends is a great way to de-stress. Surrounding yourself with people who give you a sense of belonging, purpose, and fun many provide all the stress relief you need.
7. Take care of yourself – When things get hard and you become stressed out, we tend to put ourselves last and make poor choices. Avoid eating unhealthy foods, and focus on keeping active, getting enough rest and maintaining healthy relationships.
Following these seven tips are essential in helping yourself de-stress successfully. For more information about how to eliminate stress from your life consider attending one of our upcoming “Stress Management” classes. This class is hosted by The Wilf Campus for Senior Living and features Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Toby Ehrlich. Join us as we use tools to identify and reduce common stress in your daily life.
Are you interested in hosting a class at your organization? Contact Toby Ehrlich at 732-568-1155 or [email protected] for more information.