Here are some ideas to help you relax and reduce stress. Remember you know yourself best, so do whatever suits you and makes you happy.
- Exercise. Experts emphasize the importance of exercise in our life. Research indicates that just 10 minutes of exercise is all that is needed to put people in a more positive mood. Exercise has been shown to enhance self-esteem and lower anxiety and depression.
- Attend a yoga class, or buy a DVD or book, which you can use at home.
- Try Tai Chi.
- Deep breathing. This is particularly helpful when faced with a potentially stressful situation. Breathe slowly in through your nose, filling your lungs as you do so, then release the air slowly out through your mouth.
- Laugh!
- Think about a funny video. Research has shown that by just thinking about a funny video reduced stress hormones.
- Listen to a relaxation CD.
- Talk to someone -- whether it is a friend, family member or counselor.
- Get yourself a pet. A study in America had stockbrokers look after a pet. When they later encountered a situation that would normally cause stress, these stockbrokers’ blood pressure levels were half that of those who did not get to look after a pet.
- Have a massage.
- Have a bath. Use your favorite oils and for maximum relaxation light some candles.
- Read a book. This is such an easy way to escape the world for a while.
- Indulge in your favorite hobby. You could always try something new, that you know you will enjoy.
- Eat a ( healthy ) diet.
- Limit your intake of alcohol and caffeine.
- Don’t smoke.
- Take your annual leave. Give yourself regular breaks and try to slot a regular vacation into your schedule.
- Sleep well.
- Praise yourself. It’s easy to rely on others to praise our actions. However we get disappointed when this doesn’t happen. So to avoid disappointment, give yourself a pat on the back instead.
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