Working out regularly is one of the best ways to relax your body and mind. Having a pet may help reduce stress and improve your mood. Studies show that spending time in green spaces such as parks and forests and being immersed in nature are healthy ways to manage stress. Another way to take control of your stress is to stay on top of your priorities and avoid procrastinating when you aren’t feeling stressed.
Getting your blood moving releases endorphins and can improve your mood almost instantaneously. It has less than half the caffeine of coffee and contains healthy antioxidants, as well as theanine, an amino acid that has a calming effect on the nervous system. A large dose of caffeine causes a short-term spike in blood pressure. It may also cause your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis to go into overdrive. Don’t worry about seeming crazy — just tell yourself why you’re stressed out, what you have to do to complete the task at hand, and most importantly, that everything will be okay. Try yoga on your own or find a class — you can find classes in many areas.
What you can do to address stress
In addition to having physical health benefits, exercise has been shown to be a powerful stress reliever. Consider noncompetitive aerobic exercise, strengthening with weights or movement activities like yoga or Tai Chi, and set reasonable goals for yourself. Aerobic exercise has been shown to release endorphins — natural substances that help How to Stop Drinking Out of Boredom: Tips and Advice for a Sober Life in 2023 Lantana Recovery: Addiction Treatment Rehab Center you feel better and maintain a positive attitude. When you’re feeling stressed, take a break to call a friend and talk about your problems. Good relationships with friends and loved ones are important to any healthy lifestyle. These may include drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, smoking, eating too much, or using illegal substances.
Or, once you know how to do it yourself, you can practice guided imagery on your own. Guided imagery is like taking a short vacation in your mind. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all option when it comes to stress relief, however. It’s OK to say “no” to demands on your time and energy that’ll place too much stress on you. You don’t always have to meet the expectations of others. The more your actions reflect your beliefs, the better you’ll feel, no matter how busy your life is.
Minimize phone use and screen time
One of the most popular and widely accepted theories is the transactional model https://g-markets.net/sober-living/254-massachusetts-sober-living-homes-transitional/ of stress and coping, developed by Richard Lazarus and Susan Folkman (1984).
For example, if the news gives you anxiety, take breaks from social media or limit your consumption to only a few times a day or week. Stay away from processed foods, and try not to eat mindlessly. Eating a regular, well-balanced diet will help you feel better in general. Your meals should be full of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and lean protein for energy. It’s not good for you and can put you in a bad mood, which can actually increase your stress.
