13 May 5 Ways to Reduce Stress
With the arrival of spring, you may feel the need for an energetic change. Perhaps you’ve had enough of the whirlwind of modern life and the omnipresent stress. It’s true that we’re becoming more aware of the impact of stress on our mental and physical well-being.
Here are 5 tips to help you reduce your daily stress.
Be in the present moment
Being in the present moment is essential for reducing stress and cultivating a sense of inner peace. Take regular moments to pause and fully focus on what you’re doing. Whether you’re eating, walking, showering, or even working, try to bring mindful attention to every aspect of the activity (what you’re feeling, the smells, the objects around you, etc.).
Reduce your screen time
Social media and news can often be a source of stress and anxiety, especially when they highlight negative or alarming events. Social networks also encourage feelings of comparison. Excessive screen time harms several aspects of your brain.
Give yourself regular periods of disconnection to refocus on the present moment and regulate your brain. Go for a walk or read a book.
Practice conscious breathing
Choose a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed for a few minutes. You can sit on a chair or a meditation cushion, or even lie down. Ensure your posture is comfortable and your back is straight.
Begin practicing deep and regular breathing. Inhale slowly through your nose, feeling the air fill your lungs and gently expanding your abdomen. Then exhale slowly through your mouth, releasing all the air from your lungs.
Reduce your cafeine intake
Caffeine can directly affect your stress levels. Identify the main sources of caffeine in your diet and daily routine. Besides coffee, caffeine is also found in tea, soft drinks, chocolate, and some over-the-counter medications.
Explore caffeine-free alternatives to replace coffee. Beverages such as herbal teas, herbal infusions, or simply water can be satisfying choices to replace your usual coffee.
Sleep more and better
Quality sleep plays a crucial role in reducing stress by promoting physical and mental recovery, regulating stress hormones, improving mood and emotional management, strengthening resilience to stress, and reducing physical symptoms of stress.
Drop screens a few hours before bedtime, limit caffeine consumption in the afternoon, and aim to have a stable sleep routine.