Healthy Ways to Deal with Stress

Stress has become a health problem that is running rampant in just about every demographic you can think of. Individuals, both young and old, with every background, are experiencing their own form of daily stress and finding it virtually impossible to escape. If left untreated, stress can affect you negatively both mentally and physically.

Try some of the following suggestions for dealing with your stress in healthy ways:

Learn a variety of relaxation techniques:

  • Practice mindfulness: when you’re mindful, you’re in the moment, not worrying about the past or thinking about the future. You’re focused on your current environment, the sensations, and tasks you are experiencing right now

  • Deep breathing: breathing from your diaphragm and abdomen, and pacing it to help relax body and mind.

  • Take a walk outside: smell the fresh air and focus on the green space, the trees, grass, and flowers.

Make it a habit to engage in physical activity: Physical activity takes your mind off your problems. You can try yoga or tai chi (both known for combining mental clarity with physical movements and breathing) to promote relaxation. Aerobic exercise and strength training help eliminate or manage stress. Running, walking, swimming, and biking can help reduce stress and counter negative moods. Even dancing to music is a good physical activity.

Manage social connections responsibly: Everyone needs social connections, but you must make sure those connections aren’t harmful or draining to you in any way. Learn to say “no” to people who infringe on your goodwill and time. Try to weed out social situations and people who don’t serve your well-being. But learn to say “yes” if you’re prone to isolation.

Develop a self-care routine that supports you: Taking good care of yourself naturally contributes to proper stress relief. Be sure to get enough sleep. Close all screens at least an hour before bedtime. Energy slumps can also contribute to stress, so be sure you maintain a healthy diet. Too much sugar and processed foods, or too much caffeine or alcohol can also contribute to higher stress levels.

Have some compassion for yourself: Recognize that you’re trying and coping the best you can. When you have a setback, analyze what happened and make a plan for moving forward, instead of beating yourself up for going off track.

Start small, and over time you will see significant improvements in how you’re able to deal with or avoid stress.