How to Relieve Your Stress Levels

Give yourself some me-time

For possibly half an hour daily, do something that you love. This could be literally anything – writing, composing music, knitting scarves, baking cookies, redecorating your apartment, watching funny videos on YouTube - whatever helps you relax and unwind.

If devoting time to your hobby is not something up your alley, then devote some time to your senses. This involves peaceful activities like meditation, a walk to the park or a hike up the mountains. Focus on what you’re seeing, breathing, smelling or tasting… Feel the moment you’re living in and drown out all noise from your mind. When done daily, even if for a few minutes, this can do wonders to your physical and emotional wellbeing.

If, however, getting out of your home is not a possibility for you, then…

Make use of different scents

Try aromatherapy or even scented candles. Scents like lavender have shown to reduce your stress levels considerably. And while you’re at it…

Play some calming music

This is another answer to how to relieve stress. Several independent studies and scientific researches have shown that music instantly calms your nerves if, of course, you listen to the correct type of music. Anything slow, calming with no lyrics is always preferable. Try looking up music like Chinese bamboo flutes or traditional Japanese music in YouTube – you won’t regret those playlists.

Practise yoga

Does this even need any more explanation? Duh! Of course, if that’s too much for you, then try deep breathing exercises instead.

Talk it out

If there’s someone close to you that you trust – friend, family or colleague, then how about sharing your problems with them? They might not solve anything for you, but you’ll definitely feel a lot less burdened after sharing your source of stress with them.

Write it down

If you don’t have people in whom you can confide, or are simply too shy, awkward or embarrassed to do so, then just write down whatever’s causing you stress. It might sound stupid, but just like talking out your problems, writing them down is just as beneficial for your peace of mind.

Get physical

Join a gym, go swimming, play baseball or simply turn up the volume of the music system in your bedroom and dance like no one’s watching. Working out is one of the most effective ways to relieve stress and even 20 minutes of regular exercise on a daily basis can work wonders for you. Not only is physical activity one of the best ways on how to relieve stress, but it also does wonders for your body!

Turn to religion

If you’re a religions person or simply someone who has faith in God, then how about depending on your faith to pull you through your stressful time? Start brushing up on your religious studies, including religious books. Or join a club or group of people who perform religious or social/charitable activities in the name of God!

Handle your worries one at a time

The thing is, it’s not gonna do you any good if you’re gonna worry about your work deadline, your phone bill payment and your dinner preparations for tomorrow at the same time. You need to understand first that merely worrying over something is not gonna do you any good. Jot down whatever it is that you need to accomplish, and go about focusing on one task at a time.

Laugh!

Watch comedy shows or standup comedies on TV or YouTube, join a laughter club, go to a local standup comedy show or simply watch funny movies. The thing is, the more you laugh, the more relieved you feel of your physical and mental tensions. And not only will your muscles remain relaxed for up to 45 minutes, but laughter also helps boost your immune system. That’s a double whammy when it comes to how to relieve stress!

Eat healthy

Again, duh. Foods like asparagus, berries, fruits, veggies, nuts, chocolate and even gluten can be very good for your stress. And while you’re at it, cut down on your consumption of packaged and processed foods, as well as sodas and cold drinks. They’re bad for both your mind and your body.

Adopt a pet

Obviously, get one if you’re emotionally and financially able to have one. A pet, especially a dog or a pig, is one of the best companions you can ask for. These animals are as smart as 4-5 year old human children, and simply having them in your house (i.e. a flat mate) can not only considerably reduce your stress, but also make you feel a lot less lonely. Remember – adopt, don’t shop!

Sleep, sleep, sleep

Skipping on your sleep to get ahead of your deadlines or homework is eventually gonna catch up to you. And when it does, it’s usually in the form of sleeplessness, stress, under eye circles and even migraine. So make sure you’re getting 8 hours of sleep daily!

Have a body massage!

Now experts don’t know exactly how this works when it comes to how to relieve stress, but hey, if it works, it works! Not only do massages relax you body’s tense nerves and muscles, it also helps boost your immunity, tones your body and even shows to slightly improve lung functions. If body massages are off the cards, then indulge in regular facials, manicures and pedicures.