10 ways to reduce your stress
BostonGlobe.com Elizabeth Comeau
1. Set realistic goals for yourself
Don’t set yourself up for a failure. It is impossible to get an entire day’s worth of work done in 15 minutes, so don’t even make that a goal to begin with. Keep what you want to get accomplished reasonable.
2. Organize your day
Take 15 minutes to plan things out. Organizing and planning will help you avoid losing so much time that might strain you while trying to recover it.
3. Take regular breaks from busy schedule
Our body needs rest to function properly. Short breaks in the day reduce stress and can increase productivity.
4. Learn to say no
Don’t overcommit yourself. Time management is a key tool in stress management, so don’t promise more than you can handle.
5. Have a hobby
Research shows that stress is lowest and energy is highest when engaged in activities we enjoy most.
6. Talk it out
“A problem shared is half solved.” Talk to a close friend or relation if you are stressed out. Just the act of talking it out may make you feel better.
7. Laugh
Foody says laughter truly IS the best medicine. Try to find a way to lighten the situation or circumstance.
8. Reduce coffee, alcohol, tobacco
All three of these things can increase chemicals in the body that increase heart rate and can exacerbate stress.
9. Exercise daily
Exercising releases chemicals known as endorphins that help naturally combat stress and improve mood. In particular, yoga is a wonderful way to get exercise and to learn to relax and breathe properly.
10. Count to 10
When faced with a difficult problem, count backward from 10 and take a deep breath. Deep breathing can be particularly helpful.
INside Boston.com
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