What are the most effective ways to lower my stress levels?
Hi everyone, I've always dealt with stress and anxiety but it's been at an all-time high this last year and I'm at my wit's end. I can't really make any big changes like finding a lower-stress, higher-paying job or maybe moving into a cheaper apartment to help me save more money right now so I'd love any "quick fixes" or tips you have?
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Buddy up on stressful tasks. For example, if you hate cleaning out your closet, ask a friend to join you– and of course, you'll return the favor to her. Also, take an audit of your biggest stresses and consider dropping items that you don't have to do– especially if they don't seem worth it. For example, if you have volunteered to be the room mother for your child's school but it's become a giant stressor that doesn't actually bring you any fulfillment, give yourself permission to step down from the role. Lastly, make sure you are doing the obvious: eat right, exercise, and get your rest.
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Consider what you can do in the moment of stress/frustration and what you can do to prevent stress/frustration from occurring. Behaviorally, exercises such as deep breathing can help to stimulate your parasympathetic nervous system to feel more relaxed. Cognitively, challenging negative thoughts using cognitive behavioral therapy approaches and activities can help to prevent stress/frustration from occurring in the future. Also, practicing self-care by doing activities that make us happy or relaxed can be excellent for preventing stress/frustration
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For me, stress and anxiety comes from thinking something is wrong or should be different. But life is just life—it’s our perception that creates stress. Stress is fear of the future.
So, to overcome stress, I think to myself, "In this moment, I'm safe." I try to be mindful with the immediate realities of my surroundings and stop thinking about the future.
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So, to overcome stress, I think to myself, "In this moment, I'm safe." I try to be mindful with the immediate realities of my surroundings and stop thinking about the future.
Try these:
- Deep breathing
- Yoga or stretching
- Improving your sleep
- Spending time with people you like
- Doing things that bring you joy
- Going outside
- Challenging negative thoughts
- Getting therapy
- Laughing and smiling more
- Eating a treat
- Taking a hot shower or bath
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- Deep breathing
- Yoga or stretching
- Improving your sleep
- Spending time with people you like
- Doing things that bring you joy
- Going outside
- Challenging negative thoughts
- Getting therapy
- Laughing and smiling more
- Eating a treat
- Taking a hot shower or bath
Deep breathing and stretching are my favorites, because I can do them pretty much anywhere and any time. Deep breathing especially. My favorite stretches are the ones where I sit on the floor to do them (like leg stretches) because they engage my whole body and make it easier for me to take my mind off things, but even when I don't have the space for that I can stretch my arms and it's nice.
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I like to make sure that I always have something to look forward to, whether it's big or small. I make this happen by scheduling hangouts with my friends or picking out treats for myself. The treats can be little things and they can be free too. Like this weekend, I'm looking forward to reading a book I checked out at the library!
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There’s no quick fixes I wish that were possible but it’s not I wish someone would help me listen to me
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I know people aren't always available 24/7, but I'm grateful to have amazing friends and family who help me with my stress and anxiety. It's reassuring to know that my best friend is just a text away. The other day something at work was stressing me out, so I messaged her and within a few minutes we were on a call together. After talking with her I felt much better.
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Finding joy in the little things helped me stress less. When I start feeling stressed, I take a deep breath and appreciate something around me or in my life. Today I took a moment to enjoy the warmth of the sun on my skin. Getting outside has done wonders for my mood.
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