How to Relieve Stress

Living in turbulent times might increase the levels of stress we need to deal with on a daily basis. While some people already found ways how to cope and know what best works for them, others might still be searching for answers. Of course, we are all different and unique in our own self, therefore what might work your friend might not necessarily work for you too. Below are some coping techniques that might help you to relieve stress.

Take a Walk

Researches have shown evidence that while we walk, our brain releases chemicals called endorphins, which help improve our mood and stimulate relaxation. It is not important how fast or how slow you walk, it’s just about getting some miles in. Additionally, you will probably be walking outdoors where you will breathe more oxygen. As you are inhaling oxygen, the levels of serotonin in your system will subsequently increase too. This is probably why you feel better and happier after spending time in nature.

Focus on Your Breath

Taking slow, deep breaths, which we pay attention to helps lower our blood pressure and heart rate. If you notice your heart speeding or feel like your blood pressure might a bit too high, try pranayama breathing technique. One of the techniques that works particularly to relief stress is the Alternate Nostril Breathing.

Alternate Nostrils Breathing

Get into a comfortable seated position and rest your left hand in your lap, palm facing upward. Close your eyes and start noticing your breathe. Once you feel a little bit calmer, lift your right hand in front of your face, bring your middle and pointy fingers together and place their tips to your forehead above your nose. Have you thumb read next to your right nostril and your ring finger next to your left. Once you feel comfortable to do so, close your right nostril as you are inhaling. Exhale only using your left nostril. Keep your right nostril closed, exhale with your left and inhale with your left. Then open your right nostril, lifting your toe off it and simultaneously close your left nostril with your ring finger and start exhaling with your right nostril. Inhale with your right, close it with your thumb, opening your left nostril and exhale with your left. Repeat this until you feel more at ease.

Connect with Others

When we are feeling down, our brain tries to trick us into thinking that maybe we are all alone in the world. But guess what, that is not the case at the slightest. When you are feeling stressed and need some stress relief, reach out to the first person that crosses your mind at that point. Or maybe give it some thought and reach to a friend you feel most comfortable sharing your worries with. As we are all sharing this beautiful world, chances are that most of your friends and family are also time to time feeling stressed. It always helps sharing your experience, knowing you are not alone and that it is perfectly normal and common to have unpleasant thoughts or feelings every now and then.

Try Yoga to Relieve Stress

Try Yoga. You have probably heard this advice at least once in the past few years, probably more though. While it might feel that phrases like “Yoga will help you fight stress” are just marketing catchphrases, they are more than that! Yes, yoga teachers are professionals who need to make living as much as you do but they often live by yogic principles and would not sell something they do not believe in.

Yoga does have many mental and physical benefits. If you feel like you do not have time, now is the perfect time to try yoga as there is endless online content you can turn to when it is convenient for you. Read more about How Yoga Gives You Peace of Mind.