Everyone experiences stress at one point or another in their lives. Unfortunately, stress sometimes can become overwhelming, resulting in emotional, physical and social side effects. According to the Hormone Foundation, stress can hurt your body in many ways, affecting your digestive system, immune system, cardiovascular system and nervous system. You can do several physical and mental exercises to help relieve stress.
Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises are a common way to relieve stress. Find a quiet place, and breathe deeply and slowly, inhaling through your mouth and exhaling through your nose. According to CIGNA Healthcare, breathing deeply helps calm the brain, reducing your heart rate and blood pressure while releasing tension.
Physical Exercise
Physical exercise also reduce feelings of stress. According to the National Institute of Health, even 20 minutes of exercise a day can help lower your stress levels. When you exercise, your body naturally increases production of endorphines, which act as "feel-good" neurotransmitters that help reduce stress and increase your feelings of well-being.
Meditation
Meditation exercises also can relieve stress. Meditation is an ancient tradition that focuses on "centering" your mind and body. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, meditation uses focus, specific posture and attitude to increase physical relaxation and calmness. Meditation should be done in an environment free of distractions to help you concentrate your mind on relaxing.
Keep a Journal
Write down thoughts and feelings regularly to help you get them out of your mind and body, allowing you to process what you are feeling. Adding to your journal when you are not stressed also can provide reading material for you to read when you are stressed. This helps remind you of all the positive things in your life.
Psychotherapy
When stress becomes overwhelming, sometimes talking to someone can help. Psychotherapy can provide an outlet for you to discover and overcome the things that are causing stress in your life. Most information falls under patient privilege, meaning the things you choose to discuss with your therapist remain confidential.
