Why it’s Important to Your Health
Consider a combination of these activities and habits to help you destress
and live a more relaxing life.
Meditation. Relax your mind and examine your inner self with
compassion. Meditation focuses on small ways you can change. Doing
15 minutes of meditation a day can have profound benefits and
encourage the body's innate healing power.
Breathing. Focusing on deep, slower breathing helps muscles relax
while extra oxygen tells the brain to relax the body.
Sleep. Lack of sleep magnifies the effects of stress. Try to get at least 7
hours of sleep a night. Your brain needs downtime to renew itself.
Check Your Diet. Increase your whole food intake (especially your
greens). Decrease your caffeine and sugar intake.
Moderate Exercise. Exercise releases endorphins, which increase
confidence and lower symptoms linked to both anxiety and depression.
It may also help you sleep more.
Reading reduces stress. Grab a good book and let the relaxation begin.
Stretching can help relax tight muscles.
Journaling. Write down your thoughts and feelings so you can process
them. Record the things that bring you joy and the things you are
thankful for. Review them as a way to process anxiety.
Volunteer. Serving others helps you get out of your own head.
Avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms. Don't reach for alcohol,
tobacco, drugs or rich foods, which add to stress long-term. Try talking
with friends or family members, exercising or other healthful outlets.
Get professional help if you need it.
Think differently. Let things go. Think positively. You CAN do it!