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Stress, if not managed properly, can be a dangerous toxin in your life. Sure, we all experience being in stressful situations from time to time. Sometimes, it works positively by making us tougher and motivating us to work harder, but other times, it becomes a negative force that affects our mood, reactions and overall thinking.
Although stress is normal, chronic stress should not be ignored. According to the American Psychological Association, when stress is experienced over a prolonged period of time, it can affect your health, either because of your body’s reaction or as an effect of your way of coping like smoking, alcohol drinking or overeating.
We can’t stop stressful situations to happen, but we can control how we cope and react to it. Thankfully, there are several ways to de-stress instantly. Let’s talk about them one by one.
1. Call a loved one.
Sometimes, all you need is a quick venting session to let everything out. Phone a friend, a family member or if you’re at work, find your closest colleague whom you can talk to about your concerns and worries. Trust me, you’ll feel better afterwards.
2. Practice deep breathing or mediation exercises.
This can help your body relax and improve your mood during stressful situations. Every time you feel that stress is starting to build up, excuse yourself from everyone and just close your eyes, do slow, deep breathing exercises while thinking about something positive and calming.
3. Play some music.
Music has the power to help you relax and relieve stress. Whether it’s your favorite tunes or those soothing melodies and background noises, always have a playlist ready for when you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed. If you’re alone, sing your heart out because singing releases endorphins and promotes circulation by drawing more oxygen into your blood stream, thus reducing stress.
4. Use essential oils.
Aromatherapy is the use of essential plant oils to enhance physical or psychological well-being. Certain aromas such as lavender and chamomile can help reduce your stress levels. It can be used through a diffuseror during bath and massage.
5. Seek the help of smartphone apps.
I’m guessing that you always have your smartphone handy so why not take advantage of technology to relax your mind & body instantly. Look for apps designed to combat stress as well as apps that provide guided meditations and breathing exercises like Calm and Breathe, Stop & Think.
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