When was the last time you checked in with your stress levels? If you are like many Americans, they are probably often higher than they should be. As common and natural as stress may be, it can cause numerous mental and physical health problems. However, by finding ways to incorporate de stressing tips such as these into your life, you can limit the amount you experience and start living healthier today.
1. Take Deep Breaths
If you are someone who experiences occasional stress, it can cause your heart rate to increase as well as your blood pressure. One effective way for reversing this is by taking slow, deep breaths. For some people, activities such as yoga and meditation can be particularly helpful for implementing deep breathing.
2. Spend Time in the Sunshine
How much time do you spend in the sun? If you are like most adults, you probably do not get enough Vitamin D. Fortunately, the sunshine is an excellent source of this vital nutrient. In addition, sunlight is a natural mood booster, especially in the winter months or when the weather is cloudy.
3. Try Vitamins or Supplements
Another way to reduce occasional stress is by boosting your diet and overall nutrition. Vitamins and supplements can help. For USANA Athletes, consuming high-quality USANA supplements that contain key nutrients without harmful additives is an excellent way to help support their bodies to respond to occasional stress while optimizing their overall health. Trying similar products can help you, too.
4. Stretch Your Body
When was the last time you stood up and stretched your body? You may not realize how simple it can be, but standing up for a quick stretch can quickly relieve muscle tension while helping you relax whenever you are having a stressful day. If you work from a chair all day, you can also try shoulder rollouts or chest opening stretches right from where you are sitting.
5. Reduce Screen Time and Mobile Use
Smartphones and tablets may be super convenient, but spending too much time on them can increase headaches and lead to more stress. This is particularly true if you find yourself frequently reading the news or using social media apps. By reducing screen time and mobile use, research shows that you can significantly limit stress. Additionally, doing so can also help you sleep better at night.
6. Limit Caffeine Intake
How much coffee, tea, chocolate or energy drinks do you consume? For most Americans, these caffeine containing food and beverage items are a regular part of their diets. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying a cup of Jo in the morning, consuming too much caffeine can lead to, worsen and increase feelings of anxiety. Plus, overconsuming may also harm your natural sleep patterns.
7. Listen to Music
Sometimes when you are having a bad day, one of the simplest ways to turn it around and reduce stress is by listening to your favorite music. The best part is that doing so is possible regardless of your location. Plus, music can be helpful no matter what time it is. For example, if you find yourself stressed before bedtime, classical music can be especially relaxing whereas ambient or nature tunes may help you focus more at work.
8. Avoid Procrastination
Another way to relieve occasional stress is by staying on top of priorities and avoiding procrastination. In general, procrastinating can be harmful to your productivity while leaving you scrambling to catch up. When this happens, it can drastically increase your stress levels. Plus, if you have not finished all of your to-do list tasks by the end of the day, it can also negatively impact your sleep.
Although stress is one of the body’s naturally occurring responses, too much of it can be detrimental to your health. Luckily, there are many ways to reduce it. The next time you are feeling stressed out, try implementing some of these tips into your daily life and note the positive difference they make.
