Stress Relief Strategies, Part 2
Following on from Part 1 of this series, here are some other stress relief strategies which I have found helpful.
Decluttering
I don’t know about you, but when I’m surrounded by clutter, I feel very uneasy. I can’t seem to focus on the job in hand for thinking of the clutter (well I call it a ‘mess’).
Another thing that stresses me out is when I can’t find something. How much time I’ve wasted looking for things I know I have, but which have been hidden beneath stuff. It’s such a drain on productivity, your precious time, and purse, especially when you have to go off and buy something you know you already have, but can’t find!
Without some regular elimination, your cupboards, drawers and other storage spaces get so full that it becomes almost impossible to find the things you actually want and need.
Allow yourself to a make a concerted effort to get more organised.
I know it may feel overwhelming, so break the task down.
For example, whilst waiting for the kettle to boil, why not tackle one kitchen drawer, at a time. Start small, make gradual changes and you will begin to feel the positive difference that reductions in clutter can create.
Overtime, you can then start in other areas which need a declutter, one drawer at a time.
Have a good laugh.
Keeping a sense of humour can be a great stress reliever. Laughter reduces the stress hormones, cortisol and adrenaline, and enhances the feel good hormones, oxytocin, dopamine, serotonin and endorphins. It also increases the anti-body producing cells which help for a stronger immune system.
So, the next time you’re feeling stressed or anxious, put on your favourite comedy and have a really good belly laugh.
Exercise.
We all know it’s a well-documented fact that exercise is a great stress reducer and creates an upsurge of happy hormones.
Why not think about the kind of exercise that you enjoy. Try something new. I really do enjoy swimming, but as the pools are closed, I’m having to try other things. So, I’ve bought a rebounder which is different and takes some getting used to, but I’m slowly getting the hang of it. I’m stretching and power-walking with the dog. -I’m doing a few static exercises, like squats, sit-ups and the plank and using some small hand-weights.
It really is so important to move. Exercise can provide a distraction and an outlet for frustration.
Listening to Music.
Listening to music is an easy way to elevate your mood and change your energy. Slow classical music is known for its relaxing effects to quiet your mind, relax your muscles and lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Depending on your mood, you can up the tempo and whilst listening dance like no-one is watching.
Take up a Hobby.
It’s important to remain curious, to keep learning, growing and doing things you enjoy.
Having a hobby can provide a necessary outlet for mental stimulation and stress relief. It can also give you a healthy dose of eustress, the positive type of stress that keeps you feeling vital and alive.
Hobbies allow us to take a break, enjoy positive pleasure, and provide a social outlet as well as lots of other benefits.
Here are some of the top stress-relieving hobbies:
Gardening, drawing/painting, knitting, playing an instrument, writing, jigsaws/puzzles, scrapbooking, keeping fish, and photography.
If you’d like more information, grab a cuppa and hop on a no-obligation call to find out how I can help and, more importantly, if I’m the right person for you and if you’d like to browse my free downloads and products click here
Love
Marie xox