These simple, daily habits can bring about some calm and tranquillity in your life
Stress, anxiety and tension have become a part of our daily life, more so during the pandemic. It’s affecting our
Exercise
Exercise is the most important way to combat stress. Workouts help to release neurotransmitters called endorphins which make you feel happy. People who engage in daily exercise are less likely to face anxiety. Working out for an hour daily can improve your physical health too. PRO TIP: If you are not a fitness freak, do light exercises at home. Jogging, stretches help, a brisk walk help.
Regulate Breathing
All you need is a few minutes to do some breathing exercises, which are considered one of the most effective ways to reduce stress and anxiety. Sit in a quiet place and breathe in and out, trying to focus on your breathing. There are a lot of videos on how to breathe correctly. Follow a meditation guide. Do this for at least 15 minutes every day. PRO TIP: Keep at least 15 minutes for yourself and improve your mental health. Even if you are not stressed, it will be beneficial for you.
Try Yoga
Yoga is a combination of breathwork and physical movements (asanas). While breathing calms the mind, asanas call for focus and concentration. When you’re body, mind and soul is in alignment, stressful thoughts have no place. Subscribe to yoga classes online since in-person classes are not possible now. PRO TIP: Early morning yoga is beneficial, not just for health, but to adopt as a way of life.
Smile
Forcing a smile might be the last thing you want to do when you’re stressed but the physical act of smiling can boost your mood. If you’re struggling to smile, try thinking of a recent time when you were happy or laughing and remember how you felt then. PRO TIP: It is difficult to laugh when you are stressed but a funny movie might help.
See Your Friends
Meeting your friends and loved ones is always good for mental health. Talk with them about your concerns and feelings or the things bothering you. Share your problems with them. And in the modern era, your loved ones are just a call or text away from you. Don’t hesitate to communicate. PRO TIP: If you can’t meet immediately, text them or call them. Talk with the ones who are positive and available for you.
Try Mindfulness
Being mindful is the best solution to stop thinking about the past. Concentrate on the present and think about the future. What is done is done. It cannot be changed but give your best to enjoy yourself more and be selfaware. PRO TIP: Being mindful may not be easy, but each time you feel or do something, engage thoughtfully on it and know why you are doing it.
Cut Down On Caffeine
Restrict the consumption of caffeine. Tea and coffee can make your bad day feel less stressful at the time, but overconsumption can make you feel restless, instead of calm. PRO TIP: Switch to calming teas like chamomile, green or white tea.
Cut Down On Sugar
Sugar can be inflammatory. Sugar might satisfy your taste buds but it can stimulate your anxiety in the long run. Sugary food can make you feel good and boost your energy momentarily, but it impacts your mood negatively. If you suffer from mood swings and anxiety, cut down your intake. Try alternatives like fresh fruits instead when you have cravings. PRO TIP: There are a whole lot of natural, healthier alternatives to sugar available, make them a way of life.
Dark Chocolate
Research has found that eating a bar of dark chocolate for two weeks, reduced
Listen to relaxing music
Music helps in all sorts of phases and moods and all it takes to alleviate your stress is to listen to some great music. Pick what you love, something which is easy to listen. Give it a try. PRO TIP: Keep a playlist handy.
