Sure Shot Ways to Release Stress
The 21st century’s
fast paced erratic lifestyle, work pressures, tight deadlines, cutthroat
competition, unrealistic expectations, and work-life imbalance has made the
environment – both at workplace and at home – highly stressful for most of us.
Stress affects every person, irrespective of age, gender, job profile, and
economic well being; affecting our health, relationships and performance.
In such a scenario, it is
important to know and use some simple tools to cleanse our system from time to
time. Here are some time-tested stress-busters that will not only help in
releasing the accumulated stress but also prevent it from building in the first
place:-
Cry it out- Whenever we feel overwhelmed by stress, tears naturally
well up in our eyes. But more often than not, we try to control them. From now
onwards, allow your tears to flow freely, without feeling like a jerk or a
coward. Tears are a wonderful stress-releasing mechanism factored in our
physiology. Use it.
Talk it out- Speaking about our problems lessens their pressure
upon us. But most of us shut ourselves up tight and wallow in our own sorrows.
From now onwards, talk about everything that lies bottled up inside you.
Besides talking to your friends and family, you can join some online support
group.
Take out some ‘me’
time- It is very important to take out some time for your own personal
upkeep. Be kind to yourself, and once in a while pamper yourself, without
feeling guilty. Find sufficient time to relax.
Learn to say No- We usually find it hard to say ‘No’ to others’
requests and feel guilty when we can’t please everyone. But remember that
saying ‘No’ and ‘Yes’ at the right time and to the right person goes a long way
in managing stress which comes from over-demand and inadequate self
maintenance.
Ask for help - Whenever
you feel overwhelmed with work, don’t be reluctant to ask for help. Remember,
Jesus Christ’s words, “Ask and it is given.” In any case, don’t burden yourself
with more than you can chew. Do not combine too many projects, and delegate
jobs, if necessary.
Think
happy thoughts- Once in a while, close your eyes and think of
something from your past that you are proud of or happy about. Let that memory
play back in your mind with all its details, sounds, smells, emotions, feelings
etc. Live that experience once again.
This is a great stress-busting tool.
Deep
Breathe- Our breath connects our inner world to our outer world; hence, we
can use this ever-present phenomenon to release all the accumulated stress in
our body and mind. Learn to deliberately deepen your breath. Every once in a while, especially when you
are feeling tense, breathe in slowly through your nose and breathe out slowly
through your mouth. Do this for five
minutes and notice the difference in your energy. You will definitely feel less
tense and more relaxed.
If you use these simple tools
regularly, you can say goodbye to stress and enjoy your life more fully!
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