Today’s fast paced world presents a lot of challenges. We’re always online, always connected, always working, always worrying… the upside is that you can get your stress levels under control. You definitely can’t ignore it. It’s uncomfortable and, in the long-term, has a negative impact on your physical well-being and mental health.
Luckily, there are a number of ways you can to reduce your stress levels.
1. Identify the type of stress you are experiencing and where it comes from. Is it situational – from an experience outside of your control, or chronic – from your job or home life? Stress is never easy to deal with, but if you can get to the root of it you can begin to take steps to reduce it.
2. Find simple things that invoke a sense of calm in you. Make a little time for yourself. Find a spot in nature that relaxes you and give yourself a few minutes to take it all in. Try breathing deeply, slowly and consciously and pay attention to the rhythm.
3. Look for the upside in your situation and practice gratitude.
4. Practice mindfulness for a minute a day. Be in that moment, acknowledge your body and surroundings, breathe… and continue with your day.
5. Make some time for meditation, even if it’s just for a few minutes before bed. Sleep plays and important role in your good health after all. You may only be able to do a few minutes at first, but the more you practice the longer you will be able to meditate, and the longer you reduce your stress levels the better for you.
Never fear, there are resources out there!
Our favourite is Marisa Peer – How to Reduce Your Stress With Relaxation Techniques.
YouTube has some amazing meditations on offer. Or you could sign up to a service like www.zivameditation.com, www.headspace.com or www.calm.com.
Before you get started though, watch this TEDx talk on ‘The Gifted Wisdom of Uncomfortable Feelings’ by Joan Rosenberg.
