Stress; How to Manage and Combat The Silent Killer

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 745,000 people died prematurely in 2016 due to overwork and its associated stress. This translates to a staggering one death every 40 seconds. And these are just the tip of the iceberg.

Stress is one of  the most dangerous things that most of us have in common. The victims of stress come from all walks of life. They’re the overworked executives, the struggling parents, the students battling exam pressures, and the individuals facing financial hardship. Stress doesn’t discriminate; it affects us all, regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic background.

While stress itself doesn’t directly cause death, it’s a major risk factor for a multitude of chronic diseases.

• Stroke – Stress constricts your blood vessels while circulating your blood faster. This is an attempt to get more oxygen to the places you need it in order for you to do what you need to do to survive. This is a great thing if you need to think and react quickly or take off running. Over long periods of time however, it can raise your risk of a stroke.
• Excess Weight Gain – Of course there has been tons of research done on this subject. Stress is triggered when are bodies feel like we are threatened or in danger. Thus, triggering energy to fight off or run from said threat. Our body wants us to replenish what we burn and lose from fighting or running by eating. So our appetites grow, regardless to if we used up the energy or not.
• Heart Attack – Much like the stroke section I was telling you about, the faster circulating blood is pumped by your faster beating heart. Over extended periods of time this can cause strain and deterioration of that very important organ.
• Headaches – According to what I could find, muscle tension is what causes headaches associated with stress.
• Digestive problems – Stress effects the way your digestive track processes food which can cause a whole array of issues.
• Fertility Problems – If you’re stressed out, your body thinks that your environment is not a good one to bring a baby into. My husband and I tried for two years and I literally got pregnant the month I decided to stop caring so much and just live life and let whatever happens, happen.
• Heartburn and Acid Reflux – The extra hormones accompanied with the digestive issues causes heartburn and acid reflux. I use to have worse heartburn than when I was pregnant. Whew.
• Diabetes – The extra surge of energy comes from extra blood sugar which in excess amounts may not be able to reabsorb completely, causing an increased risk of diabetes.
• Body Aches – When your body gets stressed, your muscles tense up. Constant tension and no relaxation causes your body to ache. You can really notice it in the back and shoulders area.
• Immune System Compromises – Stress can help your body heal or fight something off in the short term. Without a break though, your defense system gets worn out and less effective.

These conditions, in turn, claim millions of lives annually, making stress a silent but potent killer.

But the impact of stress isn’t limited to just the physical (as nothing truly is limited to just one layer of our being). It wreaks havoc on our mental and emotional well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, burnout, and even impaired cognitive function. This can strain relationships, affect productivity, and diminish our overall quality of life.

• Insomnia – If you have a lot of pent-up energy you’re going to have a hard time falling or staying asleep.
• Anxiety or Depression – When your body produces all of this extra energy and you don’t use it, it can manifest itself into anxiety because that energy has to go somewhere. Instead of fighting or running from the threat, you’re on constant alert for a threat to fight or run from. This is extremely exhausting.

Stress isn’t just a temporary annoyance to be shrugged off. It’s a physiological response to perceived threats, triggering a cascade of hormonal and physical changes. So if it’s so bad, why do our bodies produce it? This “fight-or-flight” response, was once crucial for survival but now gets activated by everything from deadlines to traffic jams, leaving us perpetually on edge.

Stress is a hormone release of adrenaline and cortisol, triggered by an extreme threat or emotion. It’s our fight or flight (also freeze or fawn) response which gives us a boost of energy and strength. Under appropriate circumstances, it can save our lives.

Adrenaline increases heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar, giving us a burst of energy and focus to deal with the threat. Cortisol is slower acting. It serves as a fuel depot, releasing stored glucose for sustained energy. It also suppresses non-essential functions like digestion to focus resources on the immediate challenge.

Enhanced focus, alertness, motivation and physical performance sounds great. These two working together can be lifesavers in a life or death situation. If we were being chased by a tiger, they would give us at least some sort of chance to escape. But our bodies can’t handle this state sustained for long periods of time, and damage starts to incur.

This state was never intended to last for long periods of time. It’s suppose to be a brief thing. Showing up on a moments notice to handle the immediate threat and then shrinking back into dormancy within minutes or hours, allowing our non-essential yet very essential functions of rest and digest to get back to work.

Fortunately, our society has evolved passed needing to run or fight off predictors on a daily basis. We no longer have the need to constantly be in survival mode, but our bodies haven’t quite caught up yet. Therefore, instead of causing stress when we really need it, it causes stress way too much, way too often, all the time for minuscule reasons.

Culturally, around the world, the go to for a long time now has been to ignore the effects of stress. Pushing the problem down and back in the name of productivity and success. However, ignoring the issue is no longer an option. We need to recognize it for the silent killer it is and take proactive steps to combat it at both the individual and societal levels. This means promoting healthy work-life balance, creating supportive communities, and making mental health resources more accessible.

By raising awareness and taking action, we can build a world where stress doesn’t needlessly claim millions of lives each year. Let’s work together to break the grip of stress and create a healthier, happier world for all.

Managing this stress can be a struggle, but it is essential for optimal health. Your body can not function properly if it is always under stress. If your body doesn’t function properly, it opens up pathways to all sorts of negative manifestations. If you’re not at optimal health, you can’t reach your full potential as a person and accomplish great things in this life.

How to Manage Thy Stress Levels

Yoga

Combining physical movement with mindfulness and breathwork, yoga offers a powerful toolkit for calming your mind and body. The ancient practice of yoga goes beyond just a workout.

Firstly, the act of exercise itself works wonders in managing stress. Yoga postures range from active yang movement which gets your blood pumping and endorphins flowing, to slow meditative stretches which are effective in clearing your head and melting away tension. Specific poses, like Child’s Pose and Forward Fold, encourage deep breathing and gentle stretches, directly targeting stress-harboring areas like the neck and shoulders.

So, roll out your mat and give yoga a try. You might be surprised at how effectively it can combat stress, leaving you feeling calmer, more resilient, and ready to face whatever life throws your way. Remember, consistency is key – even a few minutes of practice each day can make a big difference!

Meditation

Meditation can be your powerful ally in the fight for inner peace. This ancient practice has gained a lot of attention over recent years as something everyone should be doing. The misconceptions with meditation are still many but it isn’t just about sitting cross-legged and chanting “om.” It’s a structured training ground for your mind, teaching you to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment, letting go of tension and negativity.

Think of your mind like a cluttered attic. Meditation helps you clear out the cobwebs of worry, anger, and frustration that accumulate over time. As you learn to focus your attention on the present moment and your breath, those stressful emotions and mindsets gradually lose their grip. You’ll find yourself becoming more resilient, less reactive, and able to navigate life’s challenges with greater calm and clarity.

Meditation is a powerful tool for cultivating inner peace and reducing stress. Give it a try, even just for a few minutes each day, and experience the transformative power of a quiet mind. Again, consistency is key, and the more you practice, the more you’ll reap the benefits of this life-changing practice.

Exercise

Engaging in any activity that burns off that excess energy can work wonders for your stress levels. Think of it like letting off steam – releasing the pressure that builds up and makes you feel on edge.

The specific activity doesn’t matter as much as finding something you enjoy and that gets your body moving. Maybe it’s hitting the gym for a cardio blast, taking a dance class to express your energy in a creative way (and shake out all of those energy blocks), or even just a brisk walk in nature to get some fresh air and clear your head. The key is to find something that engages you physically and helps you release that pent-up tension.

The benefits of channeling your extra energy extend far beyond just feeling more relaxed. Stress tends to manifest in various ways, from foggy thinking to irritability, even sleep problems. By actively burning off that extra energy, you’re not just releasing physical tension, you’re also clearing your mind and improving your overall well-being.

You’ve heard of the “gym high” or “yoga high” maybe? Aside from releasing energy, physical activity releases all of the feel good hormones in the body. People at the gym are generally some of the happiness and nicest you’ll find. So, go ahead, find your energetic outlet, whether it’s Zumba, swimming, rock climbing, or simply taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Your body and mind will thank you for it!

Garden

Immersing yourself in the world of gardening isn’t just a rewarding hobby, it’s a potential key to a longer, healthier life. Just 30 minutes of daily gardening can significantly increase your lifespan. And honestly, it makes perfect sense.

Gardening is a deeply grounding experience. The act of digging in the soil, nurturing seedlings, and witnessing the magic of life unfolding – it all connects us to a primal rhythm, a raw sense of being. This connection to nature is incredibly calming, reducing stress and anxiety while promoting feelings of peace and well-being.

Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about witnessing the tangible fruits (or vegetables!) of your labor. Growing your own food isn’t just about stress relief or nourishment; it’s about empowerment and knowing exactly what’s on your plate. No more worries about hidden chemicals or mysterious ingredients – you’re in complete control, fostering a sense of self-reliance and confidence.

So, if you’re looking for a win-win situation for your health and happiness, grab some gardening gloves and get your hands dirty. You might just be surprised at how this simple act of nurturing life nourishes your own in profound ways. Remember, even a small balcony or windowsill garden can be your portal to a calmer, healthier, and more delicious life!

Sing

Singing can be a powerful tool for stress relief, offering a multitude of benefits for both your physical and mental well-being. Singing encourages deep, diaphragmatic breathing, which activates the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering a relaxation response in the body. This lowers heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension, effectively promoting a sense of calm.

The act of singing stimulates the release of endorphins, the brain’s natural feel-good chemicals. These endorphins elevate mood, reduce stress hormones, and create a sense of euphoria, making you feel happier and more relaxed. Regular singing strengthens the lungs and increases their capacity, leading to better oxygen intake and circulation. This, in turn, enhances your overall energy levels and promotes a sense of physical well-being.

Singing requires focusing on the present moment, the melody, and the rhythm. This mindfulness practice helps quiet the mind, reducing intrusive thoughts and promoting a sense of calm and clarity. It also allows you to express your emotions in a healthy way, whether it’s joy, sadness, or anger. By releasing these emotions through song, you can process them more effectively and avoid letting them build up, contributing to stress.

Participating in choirs or singing groups provides a sense of belonging and social connection. Sharing the joy of music with others can be incredibly uplifting and combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can significantly contribute to stress levels.

Physical Contact

In a world often characterized by isolation and digital connection, the power of physical touch can sometimes be forgotten. Yet, this simple act, a hug from a loved one, a handshake with a friend, even a gentle pat on the back, holds a surprising secret – it can be a potent weapon against stress.

Beyond its emotional warmth, physical contact triggers a cascade of physiological changes that combat the negative effects of stress. The gentle pressure of a hug, for instance, stimulates the release of oxytocin, a chemical known as the “love hormone.” Oxytocin lowers cortisol, one of the stress hormones, promoting relaxation and feelings of calm. It also strengthens the immune system and reduces blood pressure, further contributing to a sense of well-being.

Holding hands, cuddling, and even a pat on the back are seemingly small gestures that increase feelings of safety, security, and belonging, which can be especially effective in buffering against the isolating effects of stress.

The impact of physical contact isn’t limited to the individual. Studies have shown that couples who engage in more physical touch experience lower stress levels and greater emotional resilience. This is likely because touch fosters a sense of connection and support, creating a safe space to share feelings and navigate challenges together.

So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by stress, remember the power of a simple touch. Reach out to a loved one, offer a hug, or hold hands for a moment. You might be surprised at how this primal form of connection can melt away tension and leave you feeling calmer, happier, and more resilient in the face of life’s challenges.

Some of us have trouble with physical touch (I’m one of them) but wish we didn’t. I did an episode on communication in relationships and physical touch was a big subject we covered due to it being one of the love languages.

Find a Routine

Our bodies crave predictability, and establishing some structure to your day can do wonders for reducing stress and boosting your overall well-being.

Here’s the science behind it: when you have a consistent schedule for things like sleep, meals, and exercise, your body doesn’t have to expend energy wondering what comes next. This reduces physiological stress markers like cortisol, promoting feelings of calm and stability.

Don’t worry, you don’t need to become a robot following a rigid to-do list. Even small tweaks can make a big difference. Think of it like building a ladder to serenity, one rung at a time. Aim for a regular sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up within the same hour window, even on weekends (bummer, I know). This regulates your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, leaving you feeling energized and focused.

Set regular times for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This helps regulate your blood sugar levels, preventing energy crashes and promoting better mood and focus. Schedule your workouts for the same time each day, whether it’s a morning jog or an evening gym session. This makes sticking to your fitness goals easier and reduces decision fatigue. Once you’ve mastered a few routines, gradually add more. Soon, you’ll find yourself moving through your day with a sense of ease and control, leaving less room for stress to take hold.

Breathe

Deep breathing exercises, often overlooked in our fast-paced world, can be your secret weapon against tension and anxiety.

The magic lies in the link between your breath and your nervous system. When we’re stressed, our breath becomes shallow and rapid, triggering the “fight-or-flight” response. Deep breathing, on the other hand, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for relaxation. With each deep inhale, your body receives a signal to slow down, releasing tension in your muscles and calming your mind.

You want to keep the breath deep and low. Utilizing the diaphragm and drawing the breath into the belly. Our shoulders and chest shouldn’t really move. The good news is, you don’t need intricate yoga poses or meditation retreats to reap the benefits. Here are two simple deep breathing exercises you can incorporate into your day:

1. Diaphragmatic Breathing:

• Sit comfortably with your back straight and shoulders relaxed.
• Place one hand on your belly and the other on your chest.
• Breathe in slowly and deeply through your nose, feeling your belly expand with air.
• Your chest should remain relatively still.
• Exhale slowly through pursed lips, feeling your belly draw inward.
• Repeat for 5-10 minutes.

2. Box Breathing:

• Sit or lie down comfortably.
• Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of four.
• Hold your breath for a count of four.
• Exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of four.
• Hold your breath again for a count of four.
• Repeat for 5-10 minutes.

Laugh

When you laugh, your body undergoes a fascinating transformation. Stress hormones like cortisol plummet, while feel-good chemicals like endorphins and dopamine surge. This hormonal cocktail washes over you, triggering a cascade of positive effects. Blood pressure and heart rate decrease, muscles relax, and anxiety melts away, leaving you feeling calmer and more at ease.

But the benefits of laughter go beyond a temporary mood boost. Regular laughter can strengthen your immune system, improve your sleep quality, and even lessen pain perception. It can also foster social connection, making you feel more connected to others and reducing feelings of isolation which, as we’ve mentioned, really contribute to stress levels.

Find a Hobby

Immersing yourself in activities you truly enjoy can be a powerful antidote to stress, offering a double dose of relaxation and happiness.

Think of it like stepping into a different world. When you lose yourself in painting, lose track of time playing your favorite sport, or get swept away by a captivating novel, your worries fade into the background. This mental escape provides a much-needed break from the pressures of daily life, allowing your body and mind to unwind and recharge.

But the benefits go beyond mere distraction. Engaging in activities you enjoy triggers the release of endorphins which elevate your mood, promote feelings of well-being, and leave you feeling refreshed and energized. They act like internal stress-busters, combating the negative effects of cortisol and other stress hormones.

Moreover, the happiness you experience while pursuing your passions isn’t just fleeting joy. It contributes to your overall well-being in profound ways. Studies have shown that happiness can boost your immune system, improve your sleep quality, and even increase your lifespan. In essence, doing what you love nourishes your soul and strengthens your resilience in the face of stress.

So dust off that guitar you haven’t touched in years, sign up for that dance class you’ve always been curious about, or lose yourself in the pages of a captivating book. Find your bliss, immerse yourself in the process, and let the stress melt away as you discover the transformative power of doing what you truly enjoy. Remember, happiness is more than just a feeling; it’s a powerful tool for a healthier, happier you.

Unplug

In our hyper-connected world, staying tethered to our devices feels almost mandatory. But amidst the constant stream of notifications, emails, and social media updates, one crucial element often gets lost: peace of mind. That’s where the power of unplugging comes in.

Take a bold step and switch off (After you finish reading this post and subscribe of course). Put down your phone, shut down your computer, and let the TV screen go dark. Yes, even banishing the radio for a while can work wonders. This seemingly simple act of disconnecting offers a surprising liberation you might not expect.

Imagine: no buzzing notifications demanding your immediate attention, no endless online rabbit holes to lose yourself in, no pressure to compare your life to carefully curated feeds. Instead, you’ll find yourself present in the moment, free from the digital distractions that fragment your focus and fuel your stress.

The benefits of unplugging are multifold. You’ll find yourself reconnecting with your surroundings, noticing the subtle details you often miss in the digital haze. The chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, the warmth of the sun – these sensory experiences come alive when you’re not glued to a screen.

More importantly, you’ll reconnect with yourself. Unplugging creates space for introspection, allowing you to quiet your mind, untangle your thoughts, and simply be. This inner peace can be transformative, reducing stress, combating anxiety, and fostering a sense of calm clarity.

Don’t underestimate the power of taking a digital detox. Even a few hours of unplugging each day can significantly impact your well-being. So, take that leap, embrace the quiet, and discover the freedom that awaits you on the other side of the power button. Your stressed-out self will thank you for it.

Be Kind

Turns out, kindness not only benefits the recipient, but also acts as a potent stress-buster, making you a happier and healthier individual. It’s like a simple mathematical equation: kindness equals reduced stress, and happy people equal healthier people.

Here’s the science behind it: when you perform acts of kindness, your brain releases a cocktail of feel-good chemicals like oxytocin and serotonin. These chemicals trigger feelings of happiness, contentment, and reduce cortisol. In essence, being kind creates a physiological shift, promoting relaxation and inner peace.

But the benefits extend beyond mere chemical reactions. Kindness fosters a sense of purpose and connection to others. It reminds us that we’re part of something bigger than ourselves, contributing to a sense of belonging and social support. These factors are crucial for emotional well-being and resilience in the face of stress.

Think about it: when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, what often helps? Talking to a loved one, receiving a helping hand, or simply witnessing an act of kindness can significantly lift your spirits and shift your perspective. Kindness creates a ripple effect, spreading positivity and fostering a more supportive environment for everyone involved.

So, the next time you have the opportunity to be kind, don’t hesitate. Whether it’s offering a helping hand, paying for someone’s coffee, or simply sending a heartfelt message, remember that you’re not just making someone else’s day better, you’re also investing in your own well-being. Kindness is a win-win proposition, reducing stress, boosting happiness, and contributing to a healthier, happier you. So, spread the kindness and reap the rewards of a stress-free life with a smile.

Take a Nap

In our go-go-go world, where productivity reigns supreme, the power of rest often gets overlooked. But amidst the endless to-do lists and buzzing deadlines, remember this: rest is not a luxury, it’s a necessity, especially when it comes to combating stress.

Sure, a good night’s sleep is the ultimate champion of rest, leaving you feeling refreshed and recharged. But let’s face it, life doesn’t always cooperate, and sometimes, those eight hours feel like a distant dream. That’s where the humble nap steps in, your knight in shining armor against the stress dragon.

Think of a nap as a mini-reboot for your mind and body. A well-timed power nap, even just 20-30 minutes long, can work wonders in reducing stress and boosting your overall well-being.

Essential Oils

Inhale calm, exhale stress. That’s the promise of essential oils, aromatic plant extracts boasting a range of therapeutic benefits, including one particularly relevant in our fast-paced lives: stress relief. But how do these tiny drops of botanical goodness work their magic?

The secret lies in the power of scent. When inhaled, essential oils travel directly to the olfactory bulb, a part of the brain deeply connected to our emotions and memories. Certain oils, like lavender, chamomile, and bergamot, contain specific compounds that interact with neurotransmitters, influencing our mood and stress response.

Linalool, a prominent compound in lavender oil, for example, has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Studies have also found that lavender oil inhalation can lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, leading to feelings of calm and improved sleep quality. Similarly, chamomile oil’s apigenin content interacts with brain receptors, producing a sedative effect that eases anxiety and promotes relaxation.

But the benefits of essential oils go beyond calming individual compounds. The act of diffusion itself plays a role. The gentle mist filling the air creates a sensory experience that promotes mindfulness and shifts your focus away from daily stressors. The combination of calming scents and mindful inhalation creates a powerful synergy, promoting relaxation and easing tension.

Of course, not all essential oils are created equal. When diffusing for stress relief, choose high-quality oils from reputable sources. Start with single oils like lavender or chamomile, or explore pre-blended options specifically formulated for relaxation. Experiment with different scents and diffusion methods to find what works best for you.

Salt Lamps

Ah, the allure of the salt lamp! There’s something undeniably soothing about their soft, amber light, an ambiance that seems to melt away stress and invite relaxation. And while the science behind their stress-reducing effects might be debated, the power of their calming atmosphere is undeniable.

Perhaps it’s the gentle warmth radiating from the lamp, reminiscent of a summer sunset or a crackling fireplace. Or maybe it’s the soft glow, a stark contrast to the harsh glare of modern lighting, that eases the strain on your eyes and creates a more intimate setting. Whatever the reason, the ambiance of a salt lamp simply works.

Studies have suggested that the negative ions emitted by salt lamps might contribute to feelings of well-being. These negative ions are thought to neutralize the positive ions produced by electronic devices, which can contribute to fatigue and headaches. While the research is inconclusive, the anecdotal evidence is strong. Many people find that the presence of salt lamps creates a more relaxing and calming environment.

And let’s not forget the aesthetic appeal! The warm, orange glow of a salt lamp adds a touch of natural beauty and coziness to any room. It can instantly transform a sterile space into a sanctuary, a haven for unwinding and de-stressing after a long day.

Remember, stress reduction is a personal journey, and if these glowing beauties work for you, then let them illuminate your path to peace and tranquility.

Massage

Ah, the magic of a massage. It’s more than just a pampering treat; it’s a powerful tool for both relaxation and physical well-being. Step into a massage session, and you’re stepping into a world of calm. The gentle kneading, rhythmic strokes, and soothing oils work their magic, whisking away stress and leaving you feeling like a puddle of tranquility.

But the benefits go beyond mere relaxation. Massage therapists are artists of muscle manipulation, adept at unraveling the knots and kinks that accumulate in our bodies from daily life. That nagging headache? The tightness in your shoulders from hours spent hunched over a computer? A skilled massage can work wonders, easing tension, improving blood circulation, and alleviating those pesky aches and pains.

The magic lies in the physiological response. As the massage therapist works their magic, your body releases endorphins, the feel-good chemicals that naturally reduce stress and pain. Simultaneously, cortisol, the stress hormone, takes a nosedive, allowing your body to unwind and de-stress. This potent combination not only melts away muscle tension but also leaves you feeling happier, calmer, and more at ease.

So, whether you’re seeking a haven from the pressures of daily life or simply looking to ease those pesky aches and pains, consider a massage. It’s an investment in both your physical and mental well-being, a chance to unwind, recharge, and emerge feeling like a brand new you. Remember, you deserve to feel good, and a massage might just be the ticket to get you there. So, go ahead, treat yourself – your body and mind will thank you for it.

Go Outside

Step away from the concrete jungle and embrace the healing embrace of nature. Spending time outdoors is not just a leisure activity; it’s a potent antidote to stress and anxiety. Our bodies instinctively crave the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world – it’s where we evolved, after all.

So, ditch the screens, lace up your shoes (or better yet, kick them off!), and immerse yourself in the green symphony of nature. Breathe in the crisp fresh air, let the sunlight warm your skin, and listen to the gentle rustle of leaves or the calming murmur of a stream. This sensory feast triggers a cascade of positive changes within you.

Studies have shown that spending time in nature lowers cortisol levels. This physiological shift melts away tension, leaving you feeling calmer and more at ease. The rhythmic sounds of nature, like waves crashing or birdsong, have a meditative effect, quieting the chatter in your mind and promoting feelings of peace and well-being.

But the benefits go beyond mere relaxation. Immersing yourself in nature also boosts your mood. Sunlight exposure increases serotonin production. Even a short walk in the park can significantly improve your mood and leave you feeling more optimistic and energized.

So, don’t underestimate the power of a simple stroll in the woods, a picnic by the lake, or even just tending to your garden. These seemingly mundane activities are powerful stress-busters, offering a natural reset button for your mind and body.

Get out there, reconnect with the earth, and let nature work its magic. You might be surprised at how quickly those negative emotions melt away, replaced by a sense of calm, clarity, and renewed well-being. Remember, Mother Nature has the perfect prescription for reducing stress – it’s free, readily available, and comes with the added bonus of breathtaking scenery and fresh air. So, go ahead and touch some grass.

Play

Sometimes, the best stress reliever isn’t a spa day or a fancy vacation. It’s getting down on the floor and joining a group of giggling children in their world of pure, unadulterated play. Children, with their infectious joy and boundless curiosity, possess a magical ability to let go of life’s stressors and find happiness in the simplest things. And guess what? They’re willing to share that magic with us, if we’re just willing to listen and learn.

So, put down your phone, silence the notifications, and step into the world of a child. Join them in building a magnificent castle out of blankets and pillows, embark on a daring adventure in the backyard, or lose yourself in the imaginative world of a make-believe game. In that moment, your worries will fade away, replaced by the pure joy of the present.

Playing with children is a powerful lesson in mindfulness and appreciation. Children have an uncanny ability to focus on the little things – the intricate patterns on a butterfly’s wings, the fascinating journey of a crawling ant, the sheer joy of splashing in puddles. This ability to find wonder in the everyday is a precious gift, a reminder that happiness can be found in the most unexpected places.

Moreover, children’s innocent perspective on the world offers a breath of fresh air. They haven’t yet been jaded by life’s complexities, and their unfiltered view can be remarkably insightful. Listen to their questions, their observations, and their unfiltered opinions. You might be surprised at the wisdom and humor they hold.

So, the next time you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or simply in need of a mood boost, remember the power of play. You might also learn a thing or two about yourself and the world around you. After all, sometimes the best teachers are the smallest ones, with the biggest smiles and the most open hearts.

Learn to flow with your energy

There’s no greater way to combat stress than formulating your life in a way that avoids it. Holding boundaries, listening to your body and carving out a lifestyle that serves you rather than harms you, even when unconventional, can give you a sense of peace, purpose, joy and contentment that no amount of money can buy.

Imagine a life sculpted around your values, needs, and desires. Not one dictated by societal expectations, FOMO-inducing trends, or the relentless pressure to “keep up.” This might mean setting healthy boundaries, saying “no” more often, and prioritizing activities that nourish your soul, even if they seem unconventional. It’s about listening to your body’s whispers of fatigue and honoring its need for rest, even if it means missing a social event or skipping a workout.

This intentional life design might look different for everyone. For some, it might mean ditching a soul-sucking job for a more fulfilling career path, even if it comes with a pay cut. For others, it might involve simplifying their belongings, decluttering their schedules, and embracing minimalism. Regardless of the specifics, the goal is the same: to create an environment where stress is the exception, not the norm.

This might sound radical, even selfish. But the truth is, prioritizing your well-being isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. When you carve out a life that truly serves you, you’re not just reducing stress; you’re cultivating a fertile ground for inner peace, purpose, and genuine joy. The sense of calm and contentment that arises from living authentically isn’t something you can buy with all the money in the world.

Remember, true security and happiness don’t come from external possessions or achievements. They bloom from within, nurtured by a life intentionally crafted to avoid unnecessary burdens and embrace what truly matters. So, take a deep breath, silence the external noise, and listen to the whispers of your heart. What kind of life would truly nourish your soul? Start building that life, brick by mindful brick, and watch the stress melt away, replaced by a sense of peace, purpose, and joy that will enrich your life far beyond any temporary quick fix.

If you need some help, let me know.

Other Articles You May Enjoy:

• How to Navigate The Stigma of Neurodivergences and Learning Disabilities
• How to Find Energy Patterns that Alcohol is Masking so You Can Find Purpose & Fulfillment
• How Past Life Regression Can Help You Understand, Heal & Create Your Own Reality
• How to Trust Your Intuition & Give Yourself Permission to Grow & Manifest Abundance
• How to Ease the Grief Process by Normalizing Death in Our Society & Culture

Author

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S.S.Blake; Spiritual Life Coach, Yoga + Meditation Teacher and Founder of Earth and Water

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