Finals are over, and we’ve all kicked into summer mode, but stress doesn’t take a vacation. Personally, I tend to let stress and anxiety get the best of me. I’m always on the prowl for ways to relax and get out of my own head. Luckily, the internet is full of tips that can help you beat the stress of your everyday life. The best way to combat stress is to take care of your body, inside and out.
1. Aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy is controversial, but I believe that essential oils do have many beneficial effects. They’re aren’t very inexpensive, but they are incredibly versatile. You can apply them directly to your skin, you can diffuse them in the air, you can add them to your water, you can clean with them—basically they can be implemented into various aspects of your life. Certain essential oils are known for being stress relievers.
2. Exercise.
Exercise releases endorphins in your brain which can give you a feeling of euphoria. Actually getting off your butt and putting in work might not be so fun, but the feeling afterwards is worth it. Exercise offers some instant gratification, but is also better for you in the long run.
3. Cooking/baking.
I really like to cook, and I find that it relaxes me because it gives me something to focus on. It doesn’t have to be just cooking or baking, anything you like to do will help you take your mind off of things and focus your energy on things that make you happy.
4. Coloring.
We did it when we were kids, but adult coloring books have been very popular lately. Some believe that it’s a therapeutic way to treat stress and anxiety. I don’t know about that, but it sure is calming.
5. Sunbathing.
Getting outside, whether it’s to the beach or the woods, is a fantastic way to de-stress. Just relaxing while the sun beats down on your skin (wear sunscreen!) or enjoying a lovely view is so relaxing. The Japanese are proponents of forest bathing, because trees are believed to give off organic compounds that help your immune system.
6. Getting on a regular sleep cycle.
I know that when my sleep schedule is messed up, I’m constantly on edge. A sense of stability in the times that you wake up and go to sleep helps get you on track and feeling like you have your life in order.
7. Eating less sugar.
I gave up sugar for a month, and honestly it sucked. I did, however, feel really great physically and it helped keep my anxiety disorder at bay. Not having a consistent blood sugar level isn’t good for your body.
8. Hot bath/shower.
Taking a nice long bath or shower relaxes your muscles and gives you some alone time.
9. Drinking more water.
Most of the problems I had in regards to my health and appearance were due to not drinking enough water. I swear, once you start getting hydrated every part of your body begins to thank you because you need water. It’s 70% of you, duh.
10. Music.
I love getting in my car, putting on my favorite playlist and driving around for a while where I have all the freedom to sing as loudly as I want. I usually feel really great afterwards, no matter how weird I might look at traffic lights singing my heart out.
Anything that makes you feel good, inside and out, really helps reduce stress. If you have actual clinical anxiety like me, obviously these aren’t going to get rid of it but it’ll sure help you manage some symptoms. When in doubt, act as though you're in a tampon commercial. If you take the time to take care of your well being, your body will thank you.
