How to beat stress

Stress affects many of our lives. In our busy everyday worlds, we have to juggle family, work, finances, housework–everything that keeps our lives running smoothly. But life doesn’t always run smoothly, and that’s where stress can creep in, making us feel uncomfortable and unhappy.

Check your breathing

There are ways in which you can deal with stress whether you are at work or at home with the kids. One of the best ways to beat stress is to use deep breathing to help you relax. When we are stressed, our hearts beat faster and our breathing becomes more shallow. By relaxing our breathing for a short space of time, we can regain a sense of calm. Try taking five deep, long breaths. Breathe so deeply that your stomach muscles move up and down. Count to five to each breath: count to five as you inhale and five as you exhale. This will re-oxygenate your body, slow your heart rate, and help beat stress.

Fresh air and exercise

If you can, get outside. Go to the park or take a walk around the block. Even just stepping out of the office for a minute or being in the back yard will help you to ground yourself and help you to think more clearly. As with deep breathing, being out in the fresh air will calm your nerves and help you to beat stress. Exercise is also a great way to rid yourself of stress. If you can go for a run on your lunch break, take the kids to the pool, or fit in a hour with a fitness DVD, it will help your body to release endorphins and serotonins that will help you beat stress and feel much better.

Prepare for the day ahead

If you know you are going to have a stressful day, prepare for it the evening before by taking time to relax. Leave the housework, and take time out for yourself. Run a hot bath and spend time on you. Don’t stress out about what lies before you. Relax and help yourself to think clearly. Lavender oil is a great way to for beat stress. You can use a few drops in your bath to help calm you. Then take it with you the next day and place a few drops on a tissue. When you are feeling overwhelmed, using the deep breathing technique and inhale the lavender’s soothing fragrance.

You can beat stress by being kind to yourself. Use the deep breathing technique, take time out to relax and use a spare moment to get outside. When you can, add exercise into your daily routine and help your body to feel better. You are worth it.