How to Reduce Stress in your Life

Is Stress getting you down and making your life a misery? Here are some practical tips on how to de-stress..

Remove the Causal Factor

I know this is easier said than done. But if you are unhappy with your job, maybe it is time to ask yourself, why are you still there. Is the money so good that you cannot walk away. Are you afraid of breaking out of your comfort zone and going into uncharted territory with a new job. If you are a professional and stressed in your current work place, I think it is time move. We aren’t exactly in recession at the moment, and there are plenty of good jobs out there. Find another job, or take a break till you decide what to do next. If your health is suffering this is no longer the job for you.

Assert yourself

Learn how to say NO. Taking on too much and always being the nice guy will just add to your stress levels especially when you can’t cope with more tasks and responsibilities. Just say.. NO.

Drinking in moderation is OK.. but never cross the line.. especially as woman! 

Reduce Alcohol and Food Binging

Alcohol is destructive especially if you depressed and stressed. It is a downward spiral to drink when you are not in the right frame of mine. Throw the bottle away. Also, overeating and ‘comfort’ eating can lead to depression , which will only add to your stress, making matters much worse. Staying fit & healthy and taking regular exercise is one of the best ways to fight stress.

Stop smoking

Many smokers smoke to calm their nerves – but this is a false belief. It’s probably more of a psychological ‘crutch’, the actual chemicals in cigarette smoke are anything but relaxing to the human body and the tar in cigarettes will kill you faster than you can say Jack Robinson.

Exercise regularly

I cannot stress enough times, how important exercising is. The Endorphins alone, that are released during exercise should be enough to make you a happier person.  Pick a sport you like and gradually add more cardio intensive sports. You will also be nicely fatigued form your activities and once you hit the sack… a nice, deep, restful sleep awaits!

Relax every day

Take an hour a day to chill out and relax. It can be gardening or listening to music. Or walk the dog. Just do anything but work. No children, no husband, no cellphone, NO NOTHING. Just you and your alone time. Don’t compromise on this.

Take responsibility

Stopping worrying about things that you cannot control will help reduce your stress levels. As soon as you catch yourself thinking a negative thought, mentally change the subject, find something positive to occupy your thoughts.

If you cannot Remove, Reduce!

Reduce stress by:

Setting realistic goals and expectations.
Getting enough rest.
Surrounding yourself with good, positive people. Stay away from negative folks
Keeping things in perspective – if you find yourself hyperventilating, STOP! BREATHE! Relax. It’s not that big a deal.
Taking decisive actions instead of letting stress factors get the best of you.
Taking a holiday – you job is not going anywhere. And if your boss says, no, then you know it is definitely time to LEAVE.
Going for Yoga and Pilates
Meditating & Praying – even if the whole world does not understand, God does. Talk to him and find inner peace.