5 Ways to Relax and Reduce the Stress of the Day
Are you often on the go? Rushing to-and-fro can make it hard to relax when work and chores are out the way and you need to unwind. Your mind buzzes, and you don’t let go of stress. Here are five ways to release the strain of the day and gain much-needed rest.
Take calming breaths
You breathe all the time but might overlook the power of managing your breath to help you relax. When you are anxious or excited, your breathing is shallow and you are in fight-or-flight – a state reserved for emergencies.
As you unwind, though, your breathing becomes slow and deep. You take breaths down toward your belly. Use relaxed breathing when you want to induce a sense of calm. Inhale, expanding your diaphragm to the count of three, and exhale to the count of six. Your tranquility will soon increase.
Walk among nature
The great outdoors has more to offer than places to exercise. Stroll in the countryside or along the beach and your serenity will increase.
Being around wildlife, an exquisite landscape, water, or trees aids deep relaxation and well-being. Walking will help you produce feel-good hormones so the stress of the day fades too.
Listen to soothing music
Music has the power to lift your spirits and help you relax. Choose wisely, though. You might enjoy rock music, but it’s likely to raise your blood pressure and increase your heartbeat rather than aid calm.
Gentle, easy listening music can help you unwind and take your mind off everyday stress. So, get comfy and settle down to your favorite tracks.
Increase self-care
Acts of caring increase well-being, so plan plenty of ‘me time’ and indulge. Take a bubble bath with essential oils, enjoy a massage, or go somewhere quiet and comfortable with a book and a blanket. Do whatever helps you feel pampered, whether it’s time alone or with friends having fun.
Write in a journal
Studies show writing in a journal reduces stress. Putting pen to paper can release anxiety while you gain clarity about events and how to best handle them.
As a bonus, write in a journal before going to bed, and you may sleep better than usual. There will be no need to mull over problems when you hit the hay.
Relaxing at the end of a hard day can improve your mood, reduce stress, and even boost immunity. Make sure you wind down in one, or all the ways mentioned to wipe away worries.