How to Reduce Stress?

Stressors can make our bodies release stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. When hormones are frequently released, it can lead to high blood pressure, lowered immune responses, heart attacks, anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. It is important for your physical and mental health to manage stress.

5 Ways to Reduce Stress

Eating Better

A balanced diet that gives you good nutrition helps your body handle stress better. By eating whole, real foods and staying away from overly processed foods, you’ll restore balance and reduce the effects of stress on your body.

Stay Active

The benefits of exercise extend past your body, it helps your mind too. Exercising just 20-minutes daily such as running, walking, dancing or swimming can give you immediate relief and boost your mood.

Take a Break

Avoid stressful situations by going out for a walk, talking to friends, getting more sleep, and learning to manage your time more efficiently. It is important to take time for yourself daily, even just for a few minutes.

Laugh

Smiling and laughing are two of the best ways to feel immediate relief from stress, and it has a biological basis. Your brain is connected to your facial expressions. Laughing and smiling sends signals to your brain that you’re not stressed and helps relieve the tension.

Develop a Social Network

Turning to friends and family members when you’re feeling stressed is an important part of stress reduction. Express your concerns and share your feelings with someone who will listen and understand.

5 Relaxation Techniques for Stress Management

Some stress-relieving techniques that can help include:

Meditate

Meditation helps you focus on your mind and can help you be present in the moment. This is called mindfulness, which can help you find new perspectives to release your emotions that can be causing you stress. The effects can be immediate and practicing regularly can make them long-lasting.

Deep Breathing

Breathing deeply for a minute or so on a daily basis can slow down your heart rate, lower your blood pressure, and relieve stress and anxiety. Slowly inhale through your nose and exhale from your mouth.

Create & Use a Mantra

Develop a mantra to use when you’re starting to feel overwhelmed or stressed. A mantra such as: “I am at peace.” is great to use. Close your eyes. Repeat your mantra 10 times for stress relief.

Guided Imagery

Close your eyes, shut down your thoughts, and imagine peaceful images in your mind. Conjure up soothing scenes in your mind to help you relax and focus.

To learn more ways on how you can manage stress and engage in different stress management techniques, schedule your appointment today with Complete Neurological Care, conveniently located throughout New York City, Long Island, and New Jersey. Our center provides the skills and technology necessary to diagnose and treat common neurological concerns.