Stress Reducing Techniques
Part of an impactful life is learning how to reduce stress levels in your daily life. The number one secret I want to share with you about stress is this:
“Stress is rarely felt, but can be hurting your health!”
What does that mean? It means that most people, if you ask them,
“Are you feeling stressed?”, will answer
“No, I feel fine!”
Stress is rarely felt as a feeling. It most commonly manifests through a physical ailment or behavior.
People who are under stress will present with common physical issues that they believe have nothing to do with subconscious stress. Physical issues are back pain, back stiffness, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, increased sugar cravings, overeating and snacking, headaches, weakness etc. They will have one or more of these physical manifestations and think it is them just getting sick, pulling a muscle, having allergies, etc.
Pay attention to your physical body more than how you feel to measure stress.
Reducing Stress
Studies have shown repeatedly, that the following techniques not only reduce stress levels but can benefit your health. Do these whenever you can.
Take a walk. A brisk 5 minute walk whenever it can be fit in, even if it is just around the block is a great idea. The fresh air and change of scenery will help reduce your stress levels. If you can take a walk in a natural setting like a park, woods or near water, your stress is reduced even more.
Talk to a trusted friend. Yes, that bestie can reduce your stress levels. Studies show that when friends talk about their issues, their feelings or something they enjoy talking about where they feel supported, can result in becoming calmer, less stressed and healthier. Your best friend is only a phone call away, plus they would love to hear from you. Call them.
Listening to music. Put on music that you enjoy. Music that makes you feel good. It will soothe you and your hidden stress. Music can and does reduce stress. If you feel up to it, have a 5 minute dance party. You will laugh and be exercising even if you feel silly doing it.
Exercise. Going to the gym, for a run, play tennis, throw a frisbee at the park, or a simple 20 minute walk is all that is needed to relieve stress.
Laugh. Yes, laughing releases hormones that drop our stress levels. People who laugh often, live longer.
Write it down. If you are dealing with something big, write out your thoughts and how you are feeling. Journaling is a great way to get it out of your head and down on paper. By reading back what you wrote, you may gain a new perspective or clarity on an issue.
Ask for help. We all want to pretend we are invincible. That is a lie. Everyone has problems and has low points as well as crisis moments. If you have no one to reach out to, you can reach out to me. Send me an email. You matter and are bigger than a temporary stressful situation. Also, if you have a pastor or clergy, call them, reach out. They would be happy to help you as well. If you don’t feel comfortable doing that, sit quietly and pray. God is always near.
Stress is a silent killer. Be aware and always be proactive in combatting stress. Your body and mind will thank you for it.
-steve
