Stress is like an uninvited guest who just won’t leave. Unfortunately, stress is a part of life but it doesn’t have to take over completely. Let’s break down some ways to reduce stress and learn strategies for a chiller, happier life.
Understanding Stress: What’s Happening?
First things first, understanding stress is key. It’s your body’s way of responding to challenges or threats. When it kicks in, you might feel your heart rate pick up, your breathing speed up, or your forehead start to sweat.
It’s like your body’s preparing you for battle, even if it’s just a pile of emails.
The Signals: Reading Your Body’s SOS
Your body has its way of waving red flags when stress levels are up. Trouble sleeping, being cranky more often than not, or even being overwhelmed by the simplest tasks are all your body’s way of asking you to deal with stress.
Stressful situations can also heighten anxiety or depression, make pre-existing health issues worse or increase dependence on substances.
Your Game Plan
Now that we know what we’re dealing with, let’s chat about strategies to control your stress and bring some zen into your life.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness might sound like something reserved for Zen masters but trust us, it’s for everyone. It’s about being present and not letting your mind race ahead to the “what ifs.”
If you’re feeling it at the moment, take a deep, grounding breath and notice:
- 5 items you can see.
- 4 objects you can feel.
- 3 sounds you can hear.
- 2 scents you can smell.
- 1 thing you can taste.
You’d be surprised how much it can dial down the stress.
Move It to Lose It: Physical Activity
Ever feel that rush after a good workout? That’s endorphins at work — your body’s feel-good hormones — doing their thing. It doesn’t have to be a hardcore gym sesh: take a brisk walk, have a dance-off in your living room, or have a full-body stretch.
Whatever feels right for you, getting active is a surefire way to reduce stress.
Eating Well
It’s no secret that we can turn to comfort foods when we’re anxious. While eating a pint of Ben & Jerry’s feels good in the moment, the sugar high and crash can sometimes make you feel worse in the long run.
In moderation, the occasional sweet or fast food is fine, but generally, try to focus on healthy, nutritious foods, get plenty of liquids and eat at regular intervals.
Talk It Out: The Power of Connection
Sometimes, just talking about what’s stressing you out can lift a huge weight off your shoulders. Whether with friends, family, or a stress management counselling session, getting it out in the open can help you feel supported and less alone.
If you’re ready to chat with us, use our “Get Matched” tool to find the perfect Indigo Project therapist for you.
Creating Your Stress-Less Sanctuary
Your environment plays a big role in how stressed you feel. Creating a chill zone, whether a cosy corner in your room with your favourite books and plants or a no-phone area, can help create a stress-reducing retreat.
Here, you can take a beat without constant reminders of whatever has you stressed.
Routine is Your Friend
Establishing a daily routine can also help reduce stress. It adds predictability to your day and lets your brain know what to expect, which can be incredibly soothing.
Creating manageable to-do lists can also help, as long as they’re realistic and not going to add more stress. Take time to prioritise daily tasks and break up those big jobs into smaller chunks.
When Is It Time To Seek Help?
While we know some stress is unavoidable, no one wants chronic stress to bubble over into total chaos. When the worry gets overwhelming, let The Indigo Project alleviate some of it. Chat with one of our highly qualified and inclusive therapists to get personalised strategies and get to the root of the issue together.
Stress Less, Live More
It’s totally normal to feel stressed, but it’s how you handle it that counts. By understanding what stress is, recognising the signs, and applying some strategies, you can start to untangle the knots of tension and lead a calmer, happier life.
So, next time you feel that stress creeping up, take a deep breath, remember these tips, and know you’ve got this.
