Sell yourself to yourself, deep breathing exercises, meditation, mindfulness meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, mental imagery relaxation, relaxation to music, biofeedback (see below). Counselling to help you recognise and reduce stress. Many people swear by exercise to relieve stress in everyday life. Yoga has become a popular method of stress reduction and exercise among all age groups.
Virtually any form of physical activity can serve as a stress reliever. Even if you are not an athlete or out of shape, exercise can be a good stress reliever. Many people find that smartphone apps or audio downloads can be useful to guide them through various relaxation exercises, establish a regular routine and track progress. Try these simple relaxation techniques and start de-stressing your life and improving your health.
New research suggests that certain scents can alter brain wave activity and reduce stress hormones in the body. Although almost all yoga classes end with a relaxation pose, classes that focus on slow, steady movement, deep breathing and gentle stretching are best for stress relief. In a study with cancer patients, it was found that participants in the laughter intervention group experienced more stress reduction than those who were simply distracted (1). One way is to elicit the relaxation response, using a technique first developed at Harvard Medical School in the 1970s by cardiologist Dr Thomas H. H. Professional counsellors or therapists can help you identify the causes of your stress and learn new coping methods.
Instead of choosing just one technique, experts recommend trying several to see which works best for you. By improving your time management, you can minimise the stressors you experience and better manage the ones you can’t avoid. Walking, strength training, kayaking, hiking and spinning classes are just a few examples of how you can reduce stress. By carefully choosing what you take on and avoiding things that put unnecessary stress on you, you can lower your stress levels.
It may seem contradictory, but physically engaging your body through exercise can also reduce mental stress. For example, imagine a peaceful environment and then focus on controlled, relaxing breathing, slowing your heartbeat or feeling different physical sensations, such as relaxing each arm or leg in turn. Once you do this, regular practice can help reduce everyday stress and anxiety, improve your sleep, boost your energy and mood, and improve your overall health and well-being. However, it can also lead to inner conflict as your needs and those of your family take second place, which can lead to stress, anger, resentment and even a desire for revenge.
Some people cope with stress by drinking too much caffeine or alcohol, smoking, eating too much or using illegal substances.
