A New Year’s Resolution To Reduce Stress

Stress can be a very dangerous thing.  For many people stress has caused major health problems.  If stress is getting to be overwhelming for you, there are a variety of ways for you to relax.  This is a great list of ways you can reduce stress.

 

PMR – PMR stands for Progressive Muscle Relaxation.  Start with your face and move down your body.  Take one section at a time and tense up.  Grimace your face, grit your teeth, etc.  Then intentionally relax.  As you move down your body you will feel a wave of relaxation happening.  This can take just a few minutes or can be repeated over and over.

 

Journaling – The great thing about journaling is the privacy of it.  You can write out all those nasty letters you wish to send out.  You can make an elaborate fantasy where you conquer all your foes.  You can do whatever you want with your journal.  Take it with you, sit with it daily.  Utilize this secret tool to reduce stress today.

 

Laughter – We all know that laughter is a great health tool.  Take some time to read a good joke or spend time with a funny friend.  Watch a funny show or go see a famous comedian.  Incorporating laughter in your everyday life will keep stress from building up.

 

Just say no – Don't let commitments overwhelm you.  When somebody asks you to do something, be honest if you are booked.  Let them down easy by explaining your plate is too full without whining. 

 

Exercise – Join an athletic team or start a workout routine.  Burning excess calories go hand in hand with reducing stress.

 

Massage – Leave yourself in the hands of professionals.  Take the time to put yourself first for a couple hours.  Don't put anything right after a massage so you ruin the experience.  Give yourself a few hours to really enjoy the relief.

 

Pets – Build a fish tank, adopt a dog.  Find an animal that will provide you either constant attention like a dog or ready meditation like fish.  Whatever is best for you, get it as quickly as possible.

 

Reward yourself – Plan a vacation, set aside some spending money.  Whatever you need to do to reward yourself for your efforts.  Knowing there is a reward at the end of the road will help you keep a level head.  

 

The easiest way to get rid of stress is to identify it.  Some people have no idea what causes them stress, some people know all too well.  Gauge your feelings throughout the week and make a connection when your stress is off the charts.  Sometimes what stresses us isn't obvious.  People are different and we react to things just as differently.  Consider what makes you stress out and think about ways to avoid it, or to lessen the blow. Reducing stress  is a great way to a happier, healthy life.