Combat Stress: Top 7 Ways to Deal with Stress and Understand Stress Signalling
In a world powered by technology, we have become more connected than ever, yet we’ve never been more disconnected from our true nature. Our top 7 ways to combat stress and understand stress signalling are here to change that.
When was the last time you switched off and unplugged from the world?
Our always-on approach – combined with other factors – has led to an increase in stress and anxiety. So, here are our top 7 ways to combat stress and understand stress signalling that’ll help you stay relaxed when life gets on top of you.
1. Take Breaks
This is an obvious one, but plenty of people overlook it. Always make sure you take breaks, both from work and your daily activities. A bit of time sitting down doing nothing can help take a load off.
2. Yoga
Yoga helps relieve stress thanks to its focus on relaxation and mindfulness. Plus, yoga can help improve the quality of your sleep. You don’t need to join a class – just watch some videos and do what feels right at home. Both yoga and exercise more generally help release endorphins, known as happy hormones. It also reduces tension and gets you out of your head.
3. Mindfulness
Make an effort to create more mindful moments. At hygëia, we’re big believers in embracing the everyday as a path to inner peace. Try finding pleasure in taking a shower, going for a walk, or even cleaning the house!
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4. Journaling
It probably doesn’t surprise you, but journaling is another of the top ways to deal with stress. All you need to do is get your thoughts onto paper, as then they’re not in your head. You don’t need to do anything with your journal. In fact, throwing it away might be cathartic. If you’re stressed and can’t tell anyone, putting it down on paper is the next best thing. Read our guide to effective journaling.
5. Reconnect with Nature
There are plenty of clear links between mental health and nature. How you choose to connect with nature will depend on your local area, your availability and your needs. Regardless, find time to be among the trees, even if it’s just a walk in your local park.
6. Say No
One of the most important ways to reduce stress is to learn when to say no. Taking on too many responsibilities is an obvious way to become stressed, so know your limits. Your wellbeing is always more important than pleasing others. If you don’t feel you can say no in the moment, offer to check your calendar. That way, you can assess whether saying no is correct and, if so, you won’t have to do it in person.
7. Eat Well
Granted, eating properly can be difficult if you’re pushed for time. But making the effort to eat the right foods, particularly vitamins B and C and omega-3, can help reduce your stress levels. If you don’t feel like cooking every day, get on the meal prepping bandwagon. Doing so means you’ve got access to healthy, fresh food without the hassle of preparing it every time you’re hungry.
Final Thoughts on Dealing with Stress
There you have it, hygëia’s top 7 ways to combat stress and understand stress signalling. Of course, making all these changes at once can be difficult, so start small and work your way up. Even chipping away slightly at your stress levels should give you the chance to step back, assess your situation, and make larger changes. For more information, check out more tips from the NHS.
Love & blessings…hygëia