Did you know that stress is a natural part of life meant to trigger a fight or flight response when you’re in a threatening situation? It is okay to be stressed, but when experienced on a regular basis it can be concerning. When left unaddressed, it can affect both your physical and mental health. That said, here are some simple and straightforward ways to destress your life.
1. Take Breaks
It’s easy, especially in this day and age to feel like you have to work as hard as possible for as long as you can, but we all need breaks. Perhaps your to-do list seems unlimited, growing on a daily basis. Most people feel guilty about wanting to do numerous things on their list so that they can feel satisfied and accomplished at the end of the day or week. However, you need to take a break to become more productive. Relaxation and rejuvenation are not only important to being more productive, but it helps you destress and take a fresh take on things.
2. Establish Supports
It is almost impossible to tackle this life alone. Everyone needs people in their lives who they can lean on when things get tough. Simply knowing that you are not alone can help you destress. When you feel overwhelmed, find someone in your network, be it a friend or a loved one to speak to. Even if they are not in a position to help, it is helpful to have someone around who you can comfortably share your stresses and frustrations with, especially if they are good listeners. A fresh perspective on your situation can also be quite helpful. Connecting with friends and family can also help ensure that you have support when needed. Additionally, ensure you are also a listening ear for your friends and loved ones when they need you. This helps build a solid support network.
3. Allow Your Supporters to Challenge You
More often than not, we get stressed due to unhealthy thinking habits. While it seems best to seek support from a friend or a loved one who sees things your way, you may benefit by talking to someone who challenges your perspective. When facing a tough situation, it is especially easy to just think about the downsides. Conversing with an individual willing to be honest with you and view the bigger picture may be just what’s necessary to bring you back from an escalating spiral of negative thoughts.
4. Do not Assume Other People’s Motives
When a person reacts in a manner that makes you feel offended, do not assume the worst of them. We all have varying stressors. Perhaps the lady in the local store who rushes past you isn’t trying to be rude, but they are in a hurry due to an emergency. Maybe they lost track of time and their child is sitting at the side of the road after being dropped by the bus. Or perhaps the individual driving too close to you and honking the horn is in a hurry to see a loved one in the emergency room. Making assumptions and getting frustrated as a result will only increase your stress levels for no warranted reason.
5. Count Your Blessings
It’s important to make a habit of identifying positives in your life. Most people tend to focus on the negatives, which take a toll on them, both physically and mentally. When you are more aware of the positives in your life, you will be in a more relaxed state where little stresses don’t feel overwhelming. In some cases, all you need is a reminder. If you find yourself paying too much attention to the negative, look for a way to make positive experiences easy to remember. Contact a close loved one to make them remind you if it’s difficult for you. You can even try making notes and putting them in a spot you can easily see on a daily basis around your home, making your home a place you enjoy being with Wayfair’s furniture selection. Sometimes, you just need to see or hear the truth to change your take on an experience. Regardless of the option you pick, ensure the positives in your life are easy to remember.
6. Pick Your Battles
