Excessive amounts of stress is harmful for your body. You may feel stressed out from a variety of reasons like work, school, family, or friends. Regardless of the reason, stress is a natural part of life – but it can be dangerous when it goes unchecked. Stress can cause headaches, insomnia, low energy levels, upset stomach, the common cold, and more. Implement these 4 methods below to reduce the amount of stress you’re experiencing:
1. Exercise
Exercising is an excellent way to release pent up energy and stress. During your exercise, your body releases endorphins. Endorphins are chemicals that alleviate pain and stress. This is an excellent method to boost your happiness. Try working out 3 to 5 times a week for 30 minutes to an hour.
2. Journal
Can you remember the last time you journaled? Journaling is a great way to destress because it allows you to dump negative thoughts on paper and out of your mind. It’s empowering to journal! Different journaling techniques like gratitude journaling can help you feel better after you’re done. Keep a journal by your bedside and try journaling on a nightly basis.
3. Laugh more
Laughter can be your best medicine. It can stimulate your lungs, heart, and increase endorphin levels released in your body. Laughter is an excellent way to let go of tension you’re holding in your body. It can even promote long term health by improving your resistance to disease. Take an opportunity to laugh or crack a joke – your body will thank you!
4. Deep Breathing
Deep breathing is an easy and effective tool to reduce stress in the moment and long term. Taking time out of your day to perform deep breathing exercise for 20 minutes can promote calmness and peace. There are many different breathing techniques such as the 4-7-8 breathing method. Breath into your nose for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds, and slowly release your breath for 8 seconds.