Life can be stressful. As the song goes, “That’s Life.” But that doesn’t mean that you have to put up with stress and not do anything about it. In fact, there are a variety of ways you can find stress relief. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Notice what your physical reactions to stress are: Some people grit their teeth when stressed. Many people get loud, while others get very quiet when feeling stressful. Still others turn red or may have some other physical reaction, like neck or back pain. Know what your reactions are – just doing so may get you to take a step back and acknowledge that you are feeling stressed.
  • Take a deep breath: It is more than a cliché. You may be surprised that when you actually take a deep breath, or two or three, you may actually feel better about yourself. Deep breathing can alleviate stress, while shallow breathing can add to stress. Start by putting your hand on your lower abdomen, then breathe in through your nose, and out through your mouth. You should see your hand on your stomach rise and fall.
  • Set a time to worry: Believe it or not, scheduling a time to fret may work for you, according to some life coaching experts. Instead of letting low-grade worries and stress overwhelm your life, pick a time to worry about whatever it is that is bothering you. What you may discover after doing so is that you don’t need to waste your time worrying about the issue.
  • Learn how to meditate: Meditation, especially mindfulness meditation, can help you get out of the state you are in. It can help you be in the moment and alleviate negative thoughts. You can get started with meditation by reading a book, watching a video, or taking a class on how to meditate.
  • Exercise: Physical activity can release endorphins, which can help you feel better, and less stressed. You will breathe deeper, and that can also help with your mood. In addition, taking care of your health can make you feel more positive about yourself.
  • Have your own “happy place”: Find a place in your home where you can go and relax. Even a nook with a relaxing chair, candles, and soothing colors can help you unwind, and feel less stressed.
  • Drink some tea: Tea can be a very soothing beverage, especially herbal teas. Not only can teas like chamomile help you feel less stressed, but the ritual of making a cup of tea may help you calm down.
  • Figure out what takes you out of your mood: Maybe a book can help you feel less stressed, or cooking a meal does, or doing a puzzle, or even just listening to music. Remember what it is that helps get you out of a bad moment, and then do it.

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