We all get stressed out. It has become practically impossible to completely avoid stress in the fast-paced and success-driven world we live in. Although stress is seemingly inevitable, letting stress get you down most definitely is not. We’ve compiled some of the best ways to handle stress so you can be as positive and productive as possible.
Meditate
If you’re not a meditation guru, that’s totally fine. There are a ton of apps out there that will guide you through meditating so that you can reap all of the benefits without having to be an expert. My personal favorite of the guided meditation apps is Headspace. Headspace takes you step by step on how to sit and relax without having thoughts race through your head. Meditating is an excellent way to slow down and decompress, all in the matter of a 10-minute session.
Get moving
Let’s face it, your brain is stressed out and needs a break just as bad as you do. Give your brain a break by putting your body to work. A study by Mayo Clinic shows that the endorphins, your brain’s “feel-good neurotransmitters”, produced by exercising can directly contribute to reducing your stress levels and improving your mood. Whether it’s running on the treadmill or taking a walk around the block, get that blood pumping and watch your stress disappear.
Do something you love
There’s no better way to start feeling happy than doing the things you love. Distractions can sometimes be really good when you’re stressed out, as long as they contribute to calming you down and not to procrastinating whatever it is that is making you stressed. Whether it’s dancing, knitting, or watching your favorite movie, doing the things you love to do can take your mind off of whatever is stressing you out.
Take a 10-minute break
Taking a quick break can help you be more productive and help you chill out for the time being. Make yourself some coffee, read a book, call your mom, or do whatever it is that helps you take your mind off of things for a bit. A quick break from your stressors can help you come back relaxed, refreshed and ready to work.
Write lists
If you can’t take a break from your work, make lists. Sometimes putting pen to paper and organizing your thoughts can help slow down all of the thoughts buzzing around your head. It also helps to know that you have a tangible list of the things you need to do so that you no longer have to worry about a task slipping your mind.
Smile
Believe it or not, smiling is proven to actually make you happier and less stressed. According to The Atlantic, researchers have found that forcing a smile can actually make you happier. The study showed that those who forced a smile through stressful activities had lower heart rates and lower stress levels than those who had neutral facial expressions. So put on a smile and get to work, and you’re guaranteed to feel those stress levels decrease.
Stress can be hard to deal with, but you don’t have to let it get the best of you. Try one or all of these stress management tips and start moving towards being your most productive and least stressed self!