Eight ways that you can reduce your stress to be your best self |
Eight ways that you can reduce your stress to be your best self
Dr. Joseph Mercola
Exercise
Exercise also guards against the adverse physical effects of stress. RTD has eight fitness centers throughout the District. You can use one of these facilities before or after your shift or during your lunch break.
Spend Time in Nature
Going outdoors helps to relieve your stress naturally, with research showing levels of the stress hormone cortisol lower in those who live in areas with the most green space, as are their self-reported feelings of stress. Even five minutes in nature can help reduce stress and boost your mood. We Coloradans are lucky to have the outdoors practically in our backyard. Colorado boasts of 41 state parks and four national parks, not to mention endless trails around the metro area.
Focus on Your Breathing
Learning to breathe mindfully can modify and accelerate your body’s inherent self-regulating physiological and bioenergetic mechanisms. These changes are in large part due to the fact that you’re oxygenating your body properly as well as correcting your internal and energetic balance, and it has a direct impact on your nervous system.
Participate in Activities You Enjoy
Engaging in a hobby gives you crucial time to play and simply enjoy yourself. A hobby can take your mind off of stress and adds more much-needed fun to your life.
Eat Right
Schedule time to eat without rushing, and make sure to maintain optimal health by eating healthy on a regular basis.
Stay Positive
This is a learned technique that can lead to a more joyful life and likely much better health, as those who are optimistic have an easier time dealing with stress, and are more inclined to open themselves up for opportunities to have positive, regenerative experiences. Try keeping a list of all that you’re grateful for and make a commitment to stop any negative self-talk.
Stay Connected
Loneliness can be a major source of stress, so make a point to connect with those around you – even a quick chat while in line at the grocery store. Try volunteering, attending community events, meeting acquaintances for coffee or taking a class to meet others with like interests.
Take a Break or Meditate
Taking even 10 minutes to sit quietly and shut out the chaos around you can trigger your relaxation response. Meditating during your breaks can help you to decrease feelings of stress and anxiety even more.
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