The world is going through all sorts of problems and challenges so no one can blame you if you are also on the edge right now. With everything happening around you, is it even possible to be still and at peace?
Yes, there are things you can do to step back when stress gets too unbearable for you. Here are some tips you might want to try to feel calm and relaxed in just a matter of minutes:
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All You Need is a Hug
One of the most powerful and effective antidotes to stress is none other than the human touch. A hug can even reduce your levels of cortisol, the dreaded stress hormone. But what if you live alone or you are not a fan of hugging? Don’t worry. Putting your hand over your heart creates the same effect.
Practice Mindfulness for a Minute
Mindfulness is a form of meditation that requires you to focus on the present and nothing else. It has been revealed that mindfulness reduces stress and worry. And the best thing here is you can be mindful no matter what you are doing.
For example, do it while you are enjoying your morning coffee. Pay close attention to what you see, smell, touch, and heat at that very moment. Do it when you doing the laundry or even while you are in the shower.
Try Box Breathing
Deep breathing is a common suggestion every time you feel too stressed out. One form of box breathing done in yoga class is called box breathing. Here, you have to breathe in four steps in the same way that a box also has four sides.
- Count from one to four as you breathe in slowly.
- Count from one to four as you hold your breath.
- Count from one to four as you breathe out slowly.
- Count from one to four as you hold your breath again.
You can repeat the process several times depending on what you need.
Play Some Music
Put on your earbuds and listen to your favorite music. You can bounce back faster from stress if you listen to relaxing music.
Observe Proper Posture
Would you believe that your mood is also reflected in your body language? Every time you feel negative emotions, your posture usually collapses. You slouch and your shoulders round. This position, however, will only make your negative emotions linger. Simply stand or sit taller to help let go of them.
Go Back to Nature for a Break
Nature is another effective buffer against stress. To make things better, it is always there for you regardless of the time of day or night it might be. Spending time outside in nature even for just several minutes can lower your stress levels. If going outside is impossible, just open the window and enjoy the view.
