Stress may be a part of your everyday life, but you can benefit from a number of methods to lessen that stress. Every person reacts to stress differently and finds relief for stress differently. Experiment and try various methods for stress relief to decide what works best for you. The possibilities are nearly endless and may be conventional or unique.
Exercise
Exercise is a very effective stress reliever, as it promotes the production and release of neurotransmitters known as endorphins. Endorphins offer an overall lift of mood and attitude, according to the Mayo Clinic. Exercise also helps relieve symptoms of stress, such as tight muscles and tension.
Relax
Try yoga, t'ai chi or meditation to help focus inwardly, calm your mood and find a peaceful inner balance. Each offers a variety of physical and emotional benefits in addition to relieving stress. The rhythmic movements of t'ai chi and yoga, combined with slow or deep breathing techniques, help promote a sense of calm and focus your concentration on your movements and positions, not on what is causing your stress.
Listen to Music
Whether you prefer Chopin or Black Sabbath when you're stressed, it really doesn't matter as long as you enjoy it and it makes you feel better. Music therapy offers mood-altering effects. Holistic Online suggests that the beat and tempo of music has a calming effect, regardless of the type of music it is. Choose music that will carry you away from your daily stress and let you relax.
Breathe
Deep breathing is a technique used in many exercise and meditation forms. The key is to breathe into the abdomen while also inhaling deeply into the lungs. Your breaths should be deep and controlled. Inhaling large quantities of oxygen will help relieve your and tension. Inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth, concentrating on how you are feeling and reacting to the breath going in and out of your body.
Imagine
Guided imagery can be a form of stress relief. The key is to imagine a place and time and put yourself there as you venture deeper and deeper into that environment. You can listen to someone read from a guided imagery dialog template or listen to a recording online or on a tape or DVD player. You can also download recordings onto your MP3 player or iPod from websites like Guidedimageryinc.com. They will help you transport your mind to a soothing environment and lead you through a series of imagery exercises. Choose a calm, secluded spot when you do guided imagery so you're not interrupted. Picture a wooded forest, a warm, sunny beach or whatever setting seems ideal. Incorporate all your senses: sight, sound, smell, feel and touch, into your exercise for optimal relaxation benefits.
