Ever glanced in the mirror and caught stress doodling on your face? I suppose we’re all in the same boat when it comes to this. Living a stress-free life is that mutual turf we all dream to stand on. Yet, to unravel life without stress is to boil the ocean. Truth be told, stress is basically that uninvited relative always barging into the party, crashing the scene–we can’t kick them out but we sure can learn to live with them.

Tied with our existence, the rationale as to why we experience this phenomenon can be tackled from different angles. The instinctive fight-or-flight response, crucial for survival against predators in the past, now triggers in reaction to modern-day stressors like deadlines, bills, and drama.

Facing the facts, stress is here to stay. But more than ever realized, you actually hold more power over it. Effective stress management entails a multi-oriented approach where you are at liberty to explore different tactics until you find what best suits your needs, fostering a balanced lifestyle.

Here, we’re kicking stress to the curb with these ten tried-and-true tips:

Reflect to rise

Get down to your habits and cross out the unhealthy ones. Steer clear of your unhealthy responses to stress like alcohol abuse, smoking, and procrastination as they only offer a quick fix and may lead to further issues. Instead, identify the root causes of your stress, be it work-related or personal. This would help frame your mind for an action plan when triggers come knocking on your door.

Morning meditation and daily devotion

Picture your brain as a whirring computer screen with a gazillion tabs open. Meditation swoops in closing all the tabs and shutting down the chaos. Just meditating for at least ten minutes can transform your day as it trains you to magnify the present, freeing you from worrying about the future or dwelling on the past.

While meditation is your mind’s reset button, devotion is your soul’s anchor, grounding you amidst life’s stormy seas. It connects you to something bigger than yourself. Engaging in daily devotion gives you a sense of purpose and perspective. Whether you’re whispering prayers, reading spiritual texts, or simply counting your blessings, it shifts your focus from chaos to calm.

Think of meditation and devotion as your daily reboot. Each session cleanses your mental and emotional slate, prepping you to face the world with a clear mind and renewed energy!

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Emotions into motions

When stress and emotions start swirling, it’s your cue to get moving. Physical activity unleashes a torrent of endorphins, also known as natural mood lifters. It's as if a magical elixir courses through your veins, leaving behind a sense of euphoria. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to reap the stress-relieving benefits.

And who says exercise has to be all blood, sweat, and tears? Even a stroll in the park or a brisk walk can do wonders–as long as you get that body moving. So, head out and soak in some sunshine. I mean, who can resist the allure of a good dose of fresh air and green scenery? Everything’s spot on to reduce stress and keep you mentally sharp!

Breathe in, breathe out

As cliché as it may sound, there lies power behind a few deep breaths. Never underestimate what a simple exercise can do. Try the 4-7-8 technique: inhale for 4 counts, hold your breath for 7, and exhale for 8. Repeat this cycle a few times and you’ll marvel as your nerves start to settle. Well, you never know, it might come in handy wherever you find yourself. The next time stress hits, this is your go-to move!

Prioritize rest to stay fresh

A well-rested brain is a resilient brain. Set a regular sleep schedule, wind down with a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensure your sleep nook is conducive to rest. Best to aim for at least an eight-hour beauty sleep each night. Avoid screens before bedtime as the blue light emitted can disrupt your natural sleep-wake cycle. Remember, you're better equipped to handle stressors with a calm and composed demeanor, rather than being overwhelmed by them. If trouble sleeping is your case, try indulging in a warm bath, reading a good book, or listening to soothing music or ASMR for sleep-inducing tingles. Tear that stress with a rest!

Snack smart, stress stops

Similar to a high-performance vehicle, the body needs the right fuel to run smoothly. What you eat can affect how you feel. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains; and snack on stress-busting foods like dark chocolate and nuts packed with antioxidants and other nutrients that aid in managing stress levels.

Feeding your body right also means ticking the clock right. Regular meal intervals help maintain stable blood sugar levels, ensuring a steady supply of energy and saving the day from any hangry episodes. Just think of it this way: it’s a strategic move to keep your metabolism humming and your stress levels in check.

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Have a happy hour

Make time for joy–as simple as that. Don’t be stuck in the grind. Leave room for the things you truly love, be it arts, sports, or games. Any leisure activities or hobbies that provide you both a mental break and a sense of accomplishment make a great way to relieve stress. Every now and then, invite your loved ones and friends to have fun and create memories together. Watch a funny movie, listen to a comedy podcast, or share jokes with them.

After all, laughter is the best medicine! All for happy, count the “me time” here, too! In the desert of daily demands, having your personal oasis is important as it allows you to step back from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with yourself. Practice self-care!

Social sunshine is just around the corner

Words can mend souls and sometimes, you just need to vent. When the pressure mounts, it can feel like you're trapped in a maze with no exit in sight. The good news is that no man is an island. Why don’t you ring up a family member, sit and chitchat with a friend, or even have a casual talk with your pet? Expressing your feelings through venting can be a form of emotional detoxification, purging your mind of toxic thoughts and bottled-up emotions. Coupled with warm hugs or pat on the back, this verbal catharsis can lead to a profound sense of relief, akin to a weight being lifted off your shoulders.

Work smarter, not harder

Overwhelmed by your to-do list? Break it down into bite-sized tasks and tackle them one at a time. Managing your time effectively can help you stay organized and focused. To master the art of efficiency, prioritize what’s important and set realistic deadlines. This approach not only enhances your productivity but also prevents the overwhelming sense of drowning in a sea of endless to-dos.

And yes, technology is here for a reason. Digital apps and planners are allies that can help you keep track of and streamline your workflow, minimizing stress but maximizing time efficiency. So, watch out and don’t succumb to stress and burnout!

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Protect your peace and energy

Learn to say no! Lose your grip because you don’t have to do it all. As much as you want to take control of the situation, there are things beyond your control. Acknowledge the fact that you can do anything but not everything. Prioritize your tasks and don’t be afraid to say no to additional demands. Think before you react. Ask yourself first: “Is it worth my time and energy?” From there, you’ll learn how to weigh things and set boundaries, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.

May the odds be ever in your favor.

Text by Leigh Sofia Lazo

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