Are you stressed out? If you’re like most people, there’s a lot going on with work, family, travel, vacations, shopping, and the everyday stuff. Right?
So what should you do when you’re stressed out?
Don’t ignore it. Too much stress increases your risk for a long list of chronic health conditions, according to Harvard University.
Wondering how to manage your stress? Here are FIVE ways you can reduce your stress:
Instead of just trying to put on a happy face, pay attention to how you’re feeling. Stress can come in many forms, like:
Stress is a normal part of life. And some stress can actually motivate you to get things done, like meet a work deadline or get the house cleaned before guests arrive.
Stop a minute to recognize when you’re stressed out, then do something to manage that stress.
Just 20 to 30 minutes of daily walking, yoga, or other exercise can improve your mood as well as physical health.
It might sound too simple during a hectic or stressful day, but it really works. Try it:
Deep breathing has a calming effect that can reduce stressful feelings such as anger, anxiety, and fear. Making this a regular habit can also help lower blood pressure and increase your energy level.
You might be tempted to stay up late to get work done or “relax” and skimp on sleep. But when you don’t get enough sleep, hormones linked to stress go up. This can lead to:
Aim to sleep 7 to 8 hours a night.
There’s more than one way to manage stress in your life. Regular exercise, good sleep, and deep breathing can help.
Here are some other ways to manage your stress and improve your health:
If you’re always stressed out, talk to your doctor or ask a professional for help. You’ll feel better and live longer.
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