The developed world's number one problem, which is responsible for 75 percent to 90 percent of doctor visits, is Stress. In these increasingly stressed out times in which we live, most people aren't able to take proper rest because they are too busy. Today's fast paced life has left little scope for all to take some time off and de-stress. Many of us are coping with a huge amount of stress and need to learn how to relieve it.
Here are a few ways which should work for you and that you can use them to relax anywhere.
- Focus on Breathing: In case you are having a panic attack, sit still and focus on your breathing. Inhale slowly and deeply for eight seconds, then exhale slowly for eight seconds. Repeat this activity five or six times. Doing this will supply more oxygen to your brain helping it to relax.
- Listen to Soothing Music: Music is a great help when you want to de-stress. All you have to do is lie down and put on some soft soothing music on your iPod and it will work its magic. Soothing music is known to relieve all your stress, making you feel relaxed. So remember, whenever you are stressed, reach for your iPod!
- Take a Power Nap: If you are feeling very stressed (especially in the afternoon) then take a power nap of 15 to 20 minutes to feel relaxed. This will help you feel fresh and less stressful. It also helps improve your productivity and alertness, allowing you to take better decisions.
- Stretch: Simple stretching exercises can work wonders when it comes to stress relief. Stretching for just a few minutes a day will increase your flexibility, thus reducing the tension in your body.
- Laugh a Lot: Laughter is the best medicine for stress. Having a good laugh can make stress melt away in an instant. It also helps to lower your blood pressure and heart rate. So make an effort to have a few laughs when stressed.
- Meditate: Meditation nourishes your soul and allows you to silence your mind. Put aside a few minutes (as little as 10 minutes) each day to be alone and undisturbed, and focus on one single thought. Close your eyes, take deep breathes and empty your thoughts. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can relax in the midst of chaos.
- Go for a Walk: As soon as you feel too stressed out, just go for a small walk. Even if it is just a short walk around the local park – get up and get moving. Walking will help you focus on your breathing and concentrate on the movements of your body.
- Eat a Banana: When you are extremely stressed, the best food to eat is a banana. It will boost your energy and replace potassium, which is depleted quickly during times of distress.
- Smell Something Good: You will be amazed to know how much a good smell can affect your mood and actions. While lemon and coffee fragrances will help you achieve high concentration levels and clear thinking, scents of lavender and chamomile will have a calming and relaxing effect on your state of mind.
- Do Something Fun: Keep a super bouncy ball, a paddle ball (with the ball on the string), or a pack of cards in handy. They can be a great way to release stress.
Finally, it is important to understand that some stress is good because it can force positive and healthy changes. You can always use stress as a measurement to determine your progress toward a better life.
