Try these tips to stop stressing:
MIND YOUR MANTRA
Similar to how you create lists in your head that you repeat over and over again so that you don’t forget them, come up with a mantra that you can repeat over and over… one that actually calms you. Focusing on the rhythmic repetition of a mantra (phrase or sentence) has been scientifically proven to slow the respiratory rate while relaxing the mind. Try: “I am happy, I am calm, I am healthy.” Or something as simple as “Everything will be ok…” Then repeat repeat repeat!
GO OUTSIDE & GET DIRTY
Stick your fingers in some dirt! Sometimes getting a little dirty outside is all you need to clear out your mind. Focusing on the scent of the herbs or flowers, noticing when the buds break through along the vine, how the leaves grow, when the caterpillars come out… all help you to get out of your head for a bit. Getting back to nature is a great way to nurture yourself.
SPRITZ AWAY STRESS
Lavender is naturally ease-inducing and relaxing. Its scent eases you into a state of calm! Use lavender-infused water in a spritzer bottle to calm sudden stress, or diffuse lavender essential oils in your room. You can also use a lavender and flax-filled eye pillow to help fall asleep at night.
SOOTHE YOUR SOLES
Having your sore & tired muscles manipulated is the ideal de-stressing activity for many spa-goers. But when you don’t have the time to get into the spa, it is essential to extract the pure essence of massage – which is located in the foot! Feet are actually known as the “gateway to the body.” Foot massage, or reflexology, is an ancient practice of stimulation to pressure points to restore health and balance to the entire body. For instant relief from stress, press the solar plexus (the nerve center of the body) reflex point (located in the middle of the bottom of your foot) for 30 seconds. Release and repeat. The spot can elicit calm and overall soothing!
RECEIVE HEALING AT THE SPA
Massage improves circulation, helping in the interchange of oxygen and nutrients between the blood and tissue cells, which increases muscle recovery and strengthening. More than just relieving the muscles, massage helps bring the body and mind into balance, soothing stress both physically and emotionally.
KNIT YOUR WORRIES AWAY
Research has shown that the repetitive motion of knitting is an instant stress reducer. So grab some knitting needles and balls of yarn and knit a scarf. Seriously stressed? You can always knit a blanket or a sweater!
GET LICKED BY A FURRY FRIEND
Pets heal. Recent studies show that the sheer act of petting a dog relaxes the body, lowers heart rate and blood pressure, and steadies breathing. By caring for a pet, the focus is on them and off of your problems, adding to the calming effect. Take a hike or play chase in the backyard with your furry friend, where the exercise comes with a dose of fun. More than the natural calm that comes over pet owners, adopting a dog or a cat can add to that sense of peace, knowing that you have saved that innocent animal’s life. Adopted pets somehow know that you are giving them another chance, and they embody gratitude.
“THINKING OF YOU”
Little notes can say a lot, especially when they come in the form of surprises meant to brighten your day. Stash your favorite smile-evoking quotes and affirmations on slips of paper in your desk drawer for a fast pick-me-up amidst a frenzied day. And pay it forward to a friend or family members and send them an uplifting note.
Article by Laurel House, a Fit Living Expert, 3x published author, and believer in living a life of balance. See more of her “Quickie Tips” on her website QuickieChick.com.
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