10 Best Ways to Relieve Stress

3. Get the right foods

Eating healthy can reduce one's chances of a brain chemical disorder and imbalance. Try to eat foods with little or no trans fat, since it blocks many of the chemical reactions in the body that are quite necessary for normal living. Try eating fruits and vegetables, as they are known for their ability to cause a feeling of enjoyment when eaten. Chocolate, in small amounts, especially dark chocolate is known to release pleasure chemicals in the brain and reducing stress. Reducing or eliminating caffeine and other stimulants is a great way to help the body deal with stress as well.

4. Get fit

Aerobic and cardio exercises are well documented ways to reduce stress. These exercises can include taking a leisurely walk, to taking a fast paced cardio class. These activities allow for the brain to think on something different, such as the movements, and allows for the subconscious to deal with the everyday stresses. 

6. Look at the positives

Stress can be caused by viewing life as a chore, and not realizing the joys one has all around. Instead of looking at the amount of work that needs to be done, think of what work has been completed and how best to complete the work that needs to be done. Think about the things that bring joy into one's life when one feels stressed or over-whelmed.

7. Take a break

If one has been working for a while, taking a break can greatly reduce the amount of stress one feels. Even if working on a deadline, getting up and away from the desk for a few minutes can increase one's efficiency by reducing stress. Working hard is good, working efficient is better, and eliminating stress is best.

8. Light a candle

The light of the candle is symbolic of hope, and can cause a jump in positive chemical reactions when viewed. Keeping a candle nearby also gives something to look at when reflecting on life's joys, and keeping stress at bay.

9. Relax

Many people are so focused on work and other responsibilities that they forget to relax. Relaxation techniques such a meditation and massage therapy have long been known to reduce stress levels. People often forget that relaxing is a part of a healthy lifestyle and by skipping this aspect, people often cause more stress and feel the effects of stress more profoundly.

10. Talk to someone

The idea that "no man is an island" is very true. If one does not talk about the stressful situations in his or her life, that stress builds and can cause devastating health effects. Talk to someone, one's spouse, best friend, even one's dog. Though it seems like such a small thing, reaching out and talking to someone is one of the best ways to eliminate stress, and anyone can do it. There are professionals who can help manage stress through talking, called psychotherapist. These doctors are able to assist with help for anxiety and depression, which are often the effects of harbouring such stress.

Published 15th Apr 2010

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