Life has a funny way of throwing up surprises which can contribute towards a rise in stress and anxiety levels. We’ve all been there, especially at the moment. We mustn’t let it get the better of us, though, and if it does, it’s vital not to feel ashamed or embarrassed about it.
People from all walks of life suffer with anxiety and stress-related issues. In fact, it’s one of the most common experiences people can go through in life. Feeling overly stressed or anxious is nothing to be ashamed of for that very reason. Some people deal with it differently, too. There are numerous ways to combat the effects of it but – at times – it can feel like a huge mountain to climb to get there. You certainly need to find the right balance. There’s no use in playing endless rounds of online games like Who Wants to Be a Millionaire and going to bed extremely late most evenings; it simply won’t be beneficial to you. It isn’t complicated, though, which is exactly why a few simple steps can go a long way.
So, with that in mind, here are a few ways to relieve stress and anxiety.
Exercise
You’ve probably heard it before, but a healthy body leads to a healthy mind. Putting physical stress on your body is a great way of getting rid of any mental stress. Exercise is proven to lower your body’s stress hormones, it helps release endorphins, it can improve your quality of sleep, and it tends to increase people’s confidence around their body and, as a result, their mind reaches a better place.
Supplements
Several supplements available today are known to promote stress and anxiety reduction. There are plenty of great options to choose from, but here’s just a selection: Lemon balm, Omega-3 fatty acids, Ashwagandha, green tea, valerian and kava kava. They all have different benefits, but ultimately they all contribute towards a better mind and a reduction in anxiety symptoms.
Light a candle
This might sound silly to some, but lighting a candle is actually proven to go a long way in terms of relieving stress and anxiety. Whether it’s essential oils or a scented candle, the benefits are well known, with many scents providing a soothing and relaxing feeling. Scents such as rose, lavender, neroli, vetiver, and bergamot are recommended.
Drink less tea and coffee
Caffeine is a stimulant, therefore meaning that high doses of it can lead to an increase in anxiety levels. Different people can handle different amounts of caffeine, but generally, a reduction in caffeine intake can help people hugely in terms of combating any issues around stress or anxiety.
Write it down
Feeling anxious or stressed can lead to a whirlwind of thoughts running around your brain. In fact, it can feel like a bit too much to take on at times. That is one of the key reasons why writing things down is a helpful tool for so many people. Be sure to jot down all the things you’re grateful for in life, therefore turning the experience into a positive one of reflection and self-appreciation. Focussing on what’s positive in your life can go a long way.
Don’t forget to laugh
Whether it’s through spending time with family and friends or watching your favourite comedian on TV, laughter is the best medicine. If you’re feeling stressed and anxious, a chuckle can relieve your stress response and relieve any tension in your muscles. Laughter is also linked with improving our immune system and mood in the long-term.