Learning how to manage everyday stress is something that most people find they need at some point. When not managed effectively, stress can make it difficult to think clearly enough to resolve even simple everyday tasks, and in the worst case scenarios, may negatively affect a person’s health. The great news is that there are many simple and easy techniques for reducing your stress, three of which can be found below.
With an increasing number of studies showing the link between stress and lower levels of immunity and general health, stress management is now considered to be a crucial measure of wellbeing. These three effective stress management methods will assist you to minimise the degree of stress in your life, therefore we recommend making use of them as often as needed.
Tip 1: Exercise
Maintaining a regular, even daily exercise schedule will do wonders for your body and mind. The main advantage of exercise is detoxification of the body and reduction of stress hormones which build up in the body throughout the day.
Regular exercise encourages better blood circulation which in turn ensures that oxygen and nutrients reach the necessary cells in your body. This is essential to fight the negative effects of stress and return your system to optimum health. Guidelines recommend an exercise schedule of 150 to 300 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity each week, or a minimum 2.5 hours of exercise per week.
Tip 2: Massage
Massage has been found to have been part of the cultures in many ancient civilizations. Historical records mention massage oils and aromatic substances being used as beauty treatments, medical practices, and a means to relax the tired bodies of warriors or to aid in the treatment of wounds
In addition to being an ideal solution for relieving tired, sore muscles, massage can also improve overall body tension, anxiety and stress too. Massage involves the manipulation of the soft tissues resulting in smoother muscles and a more relaxed body and mind, making it an excellent method to reduce stress in modern life.
There is a great deal of evidence showing receiving regular massages can reduce stress while improving circulation and other natural functions of the body. There are many alternative styles of massage, therefore you should try more than one method and discover the one that you find most effective.It is not generally difficult to find qualified massage therapists but if this is not accessible, self massage to the hands, feet and body using a simple oil will bring about the same results. Massage releases endorphins within the brain that provide pleasure and relaxation which are most useful in not just stress reduction, but also assists in the treatment of emotional or mental health concerns like anxiety or depression.
Tip 3: Relaxation Techniques
Some of the most effective and popular methods to reduce stress must include meditation and yoga. Meditation or yoga classes are easily accessible either online or at a studio. Classes can vary in style and complexity so it is recommended to sample a few different styles in order to find the method that helps you to relax. It is important to note that it may not always work the first time, but there is no reason to give up. Yoga and meditation have been effective methods of stress reduction and relaxation for thousands of years, so take the time to find one that works for you.
Other options to consider as relaxation techniques include breathing techniques (or pranayama as it is known in the yogic tradition). A less complicated and very simple choice that can be practiced anywhere, anytime, deep breathing techniques are effective in reducing stress and anxiety in the moment, during performance and as a calming technique throughout the day. Breathing exercises can even be used sitting or standing at your workstation. Progressive muscle relaxation and mental imagery also are useful basic techniques which guard against stress.
Now that you’re familiar with some of the most effective stress management tips, the list doesn’t stop there. There are many different ways in which to approach the management of your overall stress including; getting enough sleep and a nutritionally healthy diet.
Finding an effective solution to managing stress can take time and there are many methods which may be helpful. Keeping an open mind to trying them all will help to find the strategy that works for you, in your individual circumstances.
Determining what causes your stress can be equally as important as treating it so it is always required to better understand its causes at the root level.
If you experience difficulty determining the cause of your stress, or you experience extended periods of high stress, it is essential to consult a medical professional who will assist you with making a stress management plan for the improvement of your overall health and continued wellbeing.