Healthiest Stress Relievers

Find healthy ways to relieve stress.

image source

Stress is unfortunately common to daily life. The combined pressures of family, work, finances and other challenges are sometimes more than individuals can rationally deal with, and people often resort to operating in a tense, strained way. This has many negative consequences on your health and well-being. Rather than turning to unhealthy habits such as alcohol, gambling or nicotine to cope with stress, educate yourself about healthy stress relievers.

Exercise

Exercise helps your body burn off excess adrenaline and channels the energy stress creates into a healthy venue. Schedule time to exercise at least 30 minutes a day, and use this time to focus on your health and put other things out of your mind. Join a gym, or find friends to walk or bike with.

Hobbies

Find things you enjoy doing, and schedule them into your day. Activities that involve your hands and being creative tend to be more relaxing, and help you work out stress and frustration. Gardening, woodwork, knitting and painting are all fantastic hobbies. Avoid activities that can foster unhealthy habits such as video games.

Time for Yourself

Although there's always one more thing to do, it's important to schedule time for yourself. Don't fall prey to false guilt! By taking care of yourself and dealing with your stress, you're helping the others in your life. Take a bubble bath. Get coffee and go for a relaxing walk in a park. Curl up and read a fun book.

Atmosphere

Avoid bringing the rushed, noisy world into your own life. Evaluate the atmosphere you live in, and make it one that helps you relieve stress. Try leaving the TV off, and choose soothing, quiet music. Light candles. Buy some flowers and make a simple arrangement.

Friends

Although friends can sometimes be a source of stress, the right ones can also often be a wonderful way to relieve stress. Take advantage of the support and encouragement friends can bring. Share concerns with close friends, or make time to enjoy activities with them. Friendships can bring perspective and can help you cope with difficult circumstances. Be sure to evaluate these friendships and ensure that they are helpful and not adding to your stress.

Sleep

The simple act of getting adequate rest is a fantastic way to relieve stress. Make this a priority in planning your schedule. If time allows, a restful time napping midday can be helpful.

Limits

Learning to say no is difficult, but it's one of the most helpful ways of relieving stress. Rather than accepting unnecessary burdens, develop the habit of first assessing whether this is an activity or duty that will add to your stress. When setting limits with friends, family or employers, be polite but firm.

References

Mental Health America: Stress: Coping with Everyday Problems
American Psychological Association: Stress tip sheet
Mayo Clinic: Tips for coping with stress