At times, life can become a bit hectic. From relationship problems to being overwhelmed at the job, a number of different things can cause a person to feel on edge. If you don’t effectively alleviate the tension, it can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Here are a few stress-relieving activities you can start today.
Get Moving
Contrary to popular belief, working out doesn’t just help you to stay in shape. It also enhances your ability to ward off stress. When exercising, your body naturally starts to produce extra serotonin and dopamine. These “feel good” endorphins immediately start to improve your mood. Research shows that aerobic exercises tend to be especially beneficial. Some of the best options include jogging, bicycling, and swimming. If you aren’t able to do any of these activities, a 10-minute walk in a quiet park can be almost as effective.
Enjoy a Sweet Treat
While it’s never a good idea to consume high amounts of sugar, enjoying an occasional sweet snack won’t hurt. In fact, this activity has actually been proven to help lower stress levels. There are plenty of delicious snacks for you to choose from. While some people may enjoy a sipping on a papaya smoothie, others may prefer eating a slice of watermelon. Both of these fruits are high in lycopene, which is associated with stress relief. You can combine the benefit of a sweet bite with vitamin or CBD gummies to start your day on a positive note.
Deep Breathing
Practicing deep breathing can help get rid of built-up tension. It’s a very good option for folks who don’t have a lot of extra time to spare. You can even perform deep breathing exercises during your lunch break. While relaxing in a quiet area, simply focus on slowly inhaling exhaling. As the extra supply of oxygen reaches your brain, expect to experience a calmer mind state.
Try Meditation
For centuries, people have used medication to calm their nerves. It’s a stress-busting activity that you can do virtually anywhere. While there are various forms of meditation, many people consider guided meditation to be the easiest. When performing guided meditation, just close your eyes and visualize yourself in a relaxing place. The beach is a quite popular destination. Try to take in all of the sights, sounds, and smells. Even the sensation of sand beneath your feet should be felt. After a few minutes of meditating, look forward to experiencing a stronger sense of peace.
Take a Power Nap
When stress starts to get to you, consider taking a quick power nap. It’ll help you to relax and refocus. A power nap is the perfect alternative to consuming coffee. Because coffee contains caffeine, it can actually increase cortisol levels in your bloodstream. Too much cortisol can cause you to feel restless. If you want to create a great atmosphere for taking a power nap, download a white noise app to your phone. This will help you to tune out any distractions.
Explore Your Artistic Side
Art therapy is a fantastic way to alleviate stress. Don’t worry about being a great artist. This activity is specifically designed to take your mind off things. With a pen in hand, allow your imagination to run wild on a doodle pad. However, make sure your thoughts remain positive and optimistic. You can further relax by using crayons to color your masterpiece. There’s nothing wrong with connecting with your inner child.
