Tips to Help You De-Stress Your Life

Stress affects your mind and body in some serious ways. When you are under stress, your body believes you are in danger, and physiological changes occur. When you feel stressed, your heart rate, blood pressure and glucose levels all increase and functions such as digestion and your immune system are suppressed. Stress can cause headaches and upset stomach and can contribute to depression. Chronic stress can also put you at risk for heart disease and leave you more vulnerable to all sorts of illnesses.

If you recognize when you are under stress and understand what triggers it, you can reduce your stress and improve your health. Learn to acknowledge when you don’t have control, and let it go.  Try not to get anxious about situations that you cannot change. When you feel yourself getting stressed, consciously take control of your reaction and focus your mind on something that makes you feel calm and in control.

Meditation, prayer, yoga or simply taking some deep breaths and clearing you mind are easy and often effective ways to control your stress. Exercise is also effective. Everything from a leisurely walk to an intense workout at the gym can calm your mind and counter the physical effects of stress.

Laughter may not be the best medicine, but it is pretty good. If you feel your stress rising, watch some funny videos online or turn on your favorite sit-com. It’s hard to be stressed out when you’re laughing out loud.

You’re also less likely to be overtaken by stress when you’re having positive social interactions. If you’re going through a particularly stressful period, be sure you spend time with friends or loved ones. And try to get enough sleep. Stress is more likely to occur when you’re not well-rested.

We can’t promise you a stress-free life, but stress should never control your life. If you follow this advice, you’ll probably feel better and be happier and healthier.