Introduction to 8 simplified ways to control stress

These simple modifications in posture, habits, thoughts, and behaviour often go a long way toward reducing feelings of stress and tension, thus making improvements to your own mental health. Here are 8 quick and simple things you can do immediately to help get your stress level under control and your life back in order!

• 1. Control Your Anger:

  Watch for the next instance in which you become annoyed or angry at some trivial or unimportant matter in life, then do practice making a conscious choice not to become angry or upset. Do not allow yourself to waste your thought and energy where it isn't deserved. Effective anger management is a tried and true stress reducer technique.

• 2. Breathe:

  Breathing is very important so breathe slowly and deeply. So before reacting to the next stressful occurrence, take three deep breaths and release them slowly. If you have a spare few minutes, try out breathing exercises such as mindfulness meditation or guided imagery as per our Relaxation cd.

• 3. Slow Down:

  Whenever you feel overwhelmed by stress, practice speaking more slowly than usual. You'll find that you think more clearly and react more reasonably to any stressful situations. Stressed people tend to speak fast and breathlessly; by slowing down your speech you will appear less anxious and more in control of your situation.

• 4. Complete one simple to-do item:

  Jump-start an effective time management strategy. Choose one simple thing you have been putting off (e.g. returning a phone call, making a doctor's appointment) and do it immediately. Just taking care of one nagging responsibility can be energizing and can improve your mental health attitude and take the pressure off all the overwhelming tasks you have to do.

• 5. Get Some Fresh Air:

  Get outdoors for a brief break or a quick walk. Our grandparents were right about the healing power of fresh air. Don't be deterred by foul weather or a full schedule. Even five minutes on a balcony or terrace can be rejuvenating.

• 6. Avoid Hunger and Dehydration:

  Drink plenty of water and eat small, nutritious snacks. Hunger and dehydration, even before you're aware of them, can provoke aggressiveness and exacerbate feelings of anxiety and stress.

• 7. Do a Quick Posture Check:

  Hold your head and shoulders upright and avoid stooping or slumping. Bad posture can lead to muscle tension, pain, and increased stress. Take this time for a short mediation and just sit quiet for five minutes whilst the world races around you. Clear your mind of all those stressful thoughts, and be at calm with yourself.

• 8. Recharge at the Day's End:

  Plan something rewarding for the end of your stressful day, even if only a relaxing bath or half an hour with a good book. Put aside work, housekeeping or family concerns for a brief period before bedtime and allow yourself to fully relax. Don't spend this time planning tomorrow's schedule or doing chores you didn't get around to during the day.

To conclude these 8 simple steps to control stress

Always remember that you need the time to recharge and energize your mental health, you will be much better prepared to face another stressful day.