Life can be pretty stressful sometimes. Whether it is work, school, or just day-to-day responsibilities stressing you out, by the time the week is over you can be left feeling tense and exhausted.
Stress can lead to:
- Hypertension
- Headaches
- Low immune system
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Exacerbation of other conditions
Here are some simple ways to decompress that may help reduce stress:
Spend Time in Nature
Studies have found that spending time in nature can lower levels of cortisol- a hormone often used as a marker for stress. Another study found that even looking at a photo of a natural setting can boost a person’s mental energy.
Take the time out of your hectic week to get fresh air and enjoy nature. Take a walk through a park or sit by a pond and enjoy the view. Whatever you do, relax and feel the healing properties mother nature has.
Breathe
It may sound simple, but breathing slowly and steadily for just a few minutes a day can help lower your heart rate and boost your oxygen levels. Taking a few moments each day to just focus on breathing can calm the body, as well as the mind.
Have a (Healthy) Snack
When you’re hungry, the body goes into a state of natural distress and can bring on irritability. Have a snack and your mind and body can relax, as it sends positive signals to the brain that you’re receiving nourishment. Choose a healthy snack such as nuts, fruit, vegetables, or even a hard-boiled egg. Eat slowly, your body will quickly relax. Avoid looking at your phone or any other screen and stay focused on just eating the food to heighten this calming effect.
Step Away from the Screen
If you can, especially if you work at a computer all day, make a conscious effort to ditch television, phones and computers for a bit. Working for eight hours or more a day looking at a screen can cause eye strain, headaches and the release of stress hormones. Instead you can enjoy some physical activity or talk to a friend.
Listen to Music
Music can slow your heart rate and have a relaxing effect on the brain. Studies have found that classical music can especially have a calming effect on individuals. After a long day, sit down and unwind to your favorite tunes