We often think of stress as something that's bad for us and should be avoided at all costs, but in moderation, stress is actually a helpful tool. It keeps us alert, focused and motivated, and can even boost our immune system. Too much stress however, can have the opposite effect, leaving us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and exhausted. This is why it's so important to take the time we need to relax and unwind. By doing so, we can recover from and reduce the stress we feel, boosting our energy levels, overall health, and clearing our busy minds ready for a new day...
If you struggle with feeling overwhelmed, here are a few tips to help:
1. Take regular breaks throughout the day to disconnect from technology and clear your mind. Even just a few minutes of mindfulness, deep breathing and meditation can help you feel more focused and calm.
2. Make time for activities that bring you joy and make you feel good. Whether it's reading, going for walks outdoors, or listening to music, do something every day that's just for you.
3. Practice healthy coping mechanisms when you're feeling stressed instead of relying on unhealthy coping mechanisms like alcohol or cigarettes. Talking to a friend or therapist about what's going on, journaling, listening to music, creativity, exercise and even simply taking a nap are all healthy ways to cope with stress.
4. Try to avoid perfectionism in both your personal and professional life. Accept that things will sometimes go wrong and that it's okay if everything isn't perfect all the time.
5. Create a relaxing environment in your home. This can be done in many ways, from simply making your bed or adding some calming Essential Oils to your bath water, to clearing out old clutter and re-arranging the furniture to give it a ‘refreshed’ feel.
6. Practice Self-Care activities often! Whether that's a stress relieving massage, manicure, face mask or a salt bath - do the little things that make you feel refreshed, pampered and taken care of.
There are so many different ways to relax and unwind. Some people enjoy yoga or going for a run in nature, while others prefer reading or listening to music at home under a blanket. Whatever you choose, the important thing is to make sure it's an activity that's right for you.
Taking time to relax is important not just for our physical health, but for our mental and emotional health as well. When we're stressed, we're more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. By taking care of ourselves and doing the things needed to reduce our stress levels, we can improve our overall wellbeing, leading not just to better days, but a better, more present and stress free future too.
