We all experience anxiety, worry, and fear from time to time. These are common reactions to various situations. You might be concerned about paying a bill on time or a career prospect, for example. These emotions might help you recognise difficulties and what you should do in a tough or risky circumstance. This is referred to as the ‘fight or flight’ response. You undoubtedly already know that stress is bad for you, but don’t let that bother you. There are some simple methods for reducing stress, and not being stressed about stress is a wonderful place to start. However, because it may be easier than it sounds, here are a few strategies for lowering your stress levels as you go about your day.
1. Get Enough Sleep.
Lack of sleep can result in low energy levels, difficulties concentrating, mood swings and an inability to perform normally. We all know when you’re not feeling your best it is easy to blow things out of proportion or making things a bigger deal than they actually are. Sufficient sleep is imperative for our mental, emotional, and physical wellness, which as a result will reduce stress and anxiety levels.
2. Meditate.
Meditation will bring the body and mind together. Close your eyes and concentrate on a pleasant recollection or image to occupy your mind. Wrap yourself in it and bask in the joy of the present. Meditation can help you achieve a state of deep relaxation. Meditation allows you to concentrate your attention and clear your mind of the muddled notions which may be bothering you and producing stress. Emotional and physical well-being is likely to improve as a result of this.
3. Lower your caffeine intake.
Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and energy drinks, is a stimulant. Anxiety can be exacerbated by high doses. The amount of caffeine that a person can tolerate varies from person to person. If you find that caffeine makes you jittery or agitated, try reducing your intake. Despite the fact that several studies demonstrate that coffee can be beneficial when consumed in moderation, it is not for everyone. In general, drinking five or fewer glasses per day is considered ideal.
4. Write things down.
Writing things down is one technique to cope with stress. This could be things you’re anxious about, or even on the positive side, what you’re grateful for. By focusing your thoughts on what’s good in your life, gratitude can help ease stress and anxiety. If you are like me, it can be difficult to tell people how you feel, nevertheless, it is important to get these feelings out. Writing down your thoughts can be a good outlet and release, without having that fear of being ‘too vulnerable’. Which for your information there is no such thing as being too vulnerable or too emotional, it is all in your head.
5. Spend time with loved ones.
Friends and relatives can provide social support to help you get through difficult times. Having a friend network provides you a feeling of belonging and self-worth, both of which can be beneficial during difficult times. Spending time with friends and family allows people cope with stress in a better way. Friends and family tend to be used as a stress buffer, discussing your difficulties is much more effective in comparison to seeking negative coping techniques like taking drugs.
6. Be as organised as possible.
Staying on top of your priorities and not delaying is another approach to manage your stress. Procrastination might cause you to behave in a reactionary manner, leaving you scurrying to get back on track. This might lead to stress and anxiety, which can have a detrimental impact on your health and sleep. Make a habit of making a to-do list that is prioritised. Set reasonable deadlines for yourself and work your way down the list.
7. Acceptance.
Accept what you can’t change and go on. It is not always possible to change a difficult circumstance. Worrying about things which are out of our control can leave us feeling very stressed and anxious. But think of it this way, technically you are worrying about things in which you cannot personally change or fix yourself, therefore, what’s the point. Concentrate on the aspects of your life over which you have control.
8. Learn your trigger points.
There are certain situations which naturally heightens stress or/and anxiety. Is it family, work, school, or something else you can identify? This will help you identify a pattern. Once a pattern is identified figuring out how to treat or at least how to cope with it becomes much easier. This way you can somewhat prepare or even avoid certain situations.
9. Exercise.
Physical activity may aid in the creation of endorphins, the brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters. Regular exercise can boost your self-esteem, enhance your mood, help you relax, and alleviate minor depression and anxiety symptoms. Exercise can also help you sleep better, which can be affected by stress and anxiety.
10. Distract yourself.
We all need a bit of escapism. Life can be hard at times, dedicating time for yourself outside of work or/and school can massively reduce anxiety and stress levels. Whether it’s binging your favourite show on Netflix, blasting out some tunes or even going for a walk in your favourite area, all these can help you unwind and destress. This will lead to you being in a better mood and therefore you will be able to handle and know how to cope with stressful and anxious circumstances in a healthier manner
“If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath.”
Amit Ray
Toni is an Administrative Personal Assistant and Business Executive, who loves travelling, health and beauty, lifestyle and business. She regularly spends her time multitasking.
