Stress is something that we all experience from time to time. While undoubtedly unpleasant, stress is simply part of the human condition and something we can’t always avoid. However, there are ways we can deal with these stressful feelings as they come. We can even take steps to get rid of the stress in our daily lives.
If you find yourself experiencing frequent bouts of stress, below are a few tips to get rid of it. Let’s take steps to lead a healthier lifestyle!
Identify what has been stressing you out
In most cases, there is an underlying issue that is causing you to feel stressed out. This could be something major, such as a sick relative or job loss. It could also be a more minor issue, like a bad great on a test or an argument with a friend.
In fact, something as small as being stuck in traffic can bring feelings of stress. But regardless of what is causing you to feel this way, it is important to recognize and face it head-on. Once you are able to identify what exactly it is that is making you feel stressed, you can start taking steps to fix it.
Be kind to yourself
During stressful times, it can be easy to beat yourself up over it and put your own well-being on the back burner. However, it is especially important during these times to treat yourself with kindness and give yourself time to feel better. Things like going on a long walk, taking a hot bath, or simply getting caught up on your favorite TV show are all great ways to relax and get back to a centered and grounded place.
During stressful times, it is also especially important to make sure you’re getting enough sleep and listening to what your body needs. Drinking enough water, eating healthy, and most importantly, treating yourself with kindness and respect can make a huge difference during stressful times.
Declutter your space
If you’ve been feeling stressed out, a cluttered space could be to blame! Having too many distractions around all the time can make life seem more hectic than it needs to be. So take a look at your space and figure out what needs to go.
Having excess clutter in your workspace can be the most distracting. So do a clean sweep of your office and get rid of anything you don’t need – this can help you relieve stress among all.
This can be any miscellaneous papers and documents, unnecessary knick-knacks, or anything else you don’t absolutely need on your desk. Try to find an alternate place for these things. Only keep things on your desk that you regularly use or need access to. Working in a space free of excess clutter is a great way to de-stress and feel more clearheaded!
Rearrange your schedule
Having an overbooked schedule is often perceived as a good thing, a sign that you’re keeping busy. However, having too much on your plate can actually make you feel overwhelmed.
It may cause you to be less productive, and you may find yourself neglecting your tasks altogether. If you find yourself feeling stressed out and overwhelmed with everything you need to get done during the day, take a look at your schedule and see if you can rearrange it to make it more manageable.
Try to get the important things out of the way first, i.e. anything that can’t wait or has a strict deadline. Then, take a look at the rest of your schedule and figure out what you can afford to push back a day or two.
Don’t beat yourself up over not being able to cross off everything on your to-do list. Instead, focus on accomplishing those tasks at a time when you’re less stressed and ready to face them head-on!
Realize that your problems are temporary
When you’re caught up in the moment of feeling stressed out, it’s easy to feel like whatever you’re experiencing is going to last forever. However, it is important to remember that whatever you’re going through will pass. If you’re feeling a bit under the weather and aren’t feeling your best at work, realize that you will soon feel better.
Even physical insecurities that may be causing you stress, like your nose, can be fixed with something like a nonsurgical nose job. Realizing that your problems aren’t permanent can help alleviate stress and put things into perspective.
Exercise
It may sound cliché, but working up a sweat is a great way to get rid of stress and release any built-up tension you may be experiencing. You don’t need to be a fitness fiend to reap the benefits of exercise – something as simple as going for a brisk walk or jog can really help you feel more relaxed at the end of a long day.
Another common misconception about exercising is that you need to have a gym membership to get in a proper workout. Going to the gym gives you access to weights and machines you may not have at home.
However, you don’t absolutely need these things. There are tons of workout regimens that can be done from the comfort of your living room, from abdominal exercises to yoga and pilates routines.
Find one that works for you and that you enjoy doing and try to stick to a regular workout schedule. You’ll notice a change in your stress levels in no time!
Change your perception
It’s easy to get caught up in negative thoughts when you’re feeling stressed, but this only leads to more stress. Instead, focus on changing your perception of whatever is happening. If you’re stuck in a traffic jam that seems to never end, try to take yourself out of that negative mindset. Remind yourself that you will soon be home and that this stressful feeling won’t last forever.
Seeing the glass as half full instead of half empty will help put things into perspective, and you’ll instantly start to feel better.