When you are overwhelmed with stress, all you think about is how to relieve it right? Although going to a stress management retreat might be the best option for you in the long run, we are here to tell you 5 simple methods to relieve your stress right now.
Take a nature walk
Being in nature, walking around and observing the beauty it has to offer is said to have healing properties. University of Minnesota published an article stating that it can reduce feelings of anger, fear and stress while increasing pleasant feelings. Additionally exposure to nature is found to contribute to our physical wellbeing as well, as it reduces blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension and the production of stress hormones. So if you are feeling overwhelmed by your responsibilities or your to-do list, instead of watching a Netflix show, leave your house and enjoy nature. Even if you don’t have a massive garden, observing the birds and being out in the sun and breathing fresh air can do wonders for your stress level.
Engage in a hobby
Your work or your studies may genuinely be something you love…until it stresses you out. So while you are stressed by the amount of workload you have or any issues relating to it, make sure you spend time on other activities that you enjoy. Take a moment to play an instrument, sing, draw, cook or whatever it is you enjoy doing and you will find yourself feeling less stressed almost immediately. Research even shows that people with hobbies are less likely to suffer from stress. So this can even be a long term decision; to continue engaging in your hobby so that you will feel less stressed in the long run.
Breathe
Sounds pretty obvious right? But no, we don’t mean the subconscious act of breathing. But really spending time focusing and meditation on your breath. Practicing mindful meditation or even the simple and powerful technique of taking long, slow, deep breaths known as abdominal or belly breathing. Harvard Health notes that when you practice this technique, you gently disengage your mind from distracting thoughts and sensations. So if you are feeling overwhelmed, pause, and take deep long breaths. You can even try the 4-4-4 technique: breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds and
exhale for 4 seconds. Sometimes it’s all about going back to the basics.
Hug it out
This word might cause a lot of mixed reactions. But it can’t be denied that hugging someone special to you can be extremely beneficial. It is discovered that it can relieve a lot of your stress as well. Studies have shown that when you hug someone, oxytocin which is also known as the ‘cuddle hormone’ is released. Oxytocin is associated with higher levels of happiness and lower levels of stress. It also reduces the stress hormone, norepinephrine, and can produce a sense of relaxation. So although it might seem too good to be true, if you have the opportunity to ask a loved one for a hug, go do so. It can be the simplest form of stress relief available.
Talk about it
As humans, talking is something we have become great at. Even those who are considered soft-spoken or introverted, have a close circle of friends in their comfort zone that they really let loose around. And thankfully, talking it out, ranting, venting and complaining can help you relieve that feeling of stress. So if you are feeling stressed, take a break and call a friend who will be there to listen to you. It’s always easier when you share your burden with someone else. This has been proven as good relationships with friends and loved ones are important to any healthy lifestyle. So don’t let your stress eat you out, call your ‘person’ and let them know what you are honestly feeling and experience the weight life off your shoulders.
