Tension headaches, muscle fatigue, moodiness and lack of sleep are symptoms of stress that most people experience on a daily basis. Stress is apart of our lives, in-fact it is a necessary part of our lives. Without it, life would be boring. Now if you agree with me on that, you would also have to agree that too much stress (acute or chronic) is bad for us. It can lead to numerous physical, mental and emotional problems like digestive problems, heart disease, skin conditions such as eczema, memory problems, paranoia, inability to concentrate, sense of loneliness and isolation, moodiness etc. As a result, it is recommended for everyone to find a way of releasing all the pent-up emotions so as to reduce stress. And the good news is; it doesn’t have to be a retreat or a spa weekend. Here, we have assembled the top three methods for reducing stress.
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Meditation
This is becoming an increasingly popular method of reducing stress. Not only does it drastically reduce stress levels, it boosts creativity, improve emotional stability and quality of sleep. Thus, it is quite an effective method.
Sit cross-legged on the floor with your spine and neck straightened and properly aligned. Now close your eyes and free your mind. Quiet your mind and by not focusing on anything in particular. Keep trying till you get in tune with your inner silence and get into a deeper state of consciousness.
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Deep Inhalation
Sometimes, the best way to get rid of stress is to breathe better. More oxygen intake reduces stress by supplying the brain and other parts of the body with more oxygen, reducing heart rate and lowering blood pressure.
This breathing method is called the ‘Abdominal Breathing’. Start by focusing intently on your breathing. Close your eyes and inhale slowly through your nose taking all the way to your abdomen then exhaling through your mouth. Repeat the process a couple of times when stressed and enjoy the result.
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Laugh more
Laughing not only lowers your body’s stress hormone (cortisol), it promotes the secretion of a brain chemical called endorphins, a hormone that improves mood. Watch your favorite comedy show, a funny video or just talk to someone who makes you laugh.
These methods are very effective and can be done in less than 15 minutes. Exercise is also a very effective way to reducing stress.