4 Ways You Can Combat Stress Each Day
Every April since 1992, healthcare professionals and experts across America have observe Stress Awareness Month to educate the public about the causes and cures of stress.
In the last twenty years, we've uncovered a lot about how stress impacts Americans, but even with the evidence, many people simply don't recognize the symptoms. The American Psychological Association found that 1 in 3 Americans report extreme levels of stress, which can be damaging emotionally and physically.
The symptoms of stress vary among individuals, so it is important to do a personal check-in every-so-often.
Consider adopting the following tips if you find you are experiencing high stress levels:
1. Take time to relax.
Taking just 5 minutes to meditate or sit quietly can relieve your body of the physical strain that comes with stress. Deep breathing and yoga are also viable options that give your body a chance to calm itself.
2. Avoid drinks that stimulate your body.
Sugary drinks and those filled with caffeine can cause your body to increase your stress levels. Swapping your soda for water can help your body to stay calm in stressful situations. Plus, dehydration leads to higher levels of the stress hormone in your body.
3. Exercising can help you calm down.
Going for a swim or a jog can help to clear your mind, and break you out of a negative spiral of
thoughts when you deal with stress. Endorphins are naturally released when you exercise, which also give you energy to deal with your stressful situation.
4. Prioritize and focus to reduce stress.
Missing a work deadline, or failing to achieve a goal you set for yourself can take a toll on you. By prioritizing and breaking large tasks into smaller achievable goals, you can avoid feeling unproductive.
Stress can feel like a sinkhole you'll never escape from, but by taking daily action against it, you can easily manage it.
How do you deal with the unavoidable stress in your life? Let us know in the comments!
