Stress is a natural product of the daily problems everyone faces, such as congestion on the highway, disgruntled neighbors or co-workers and financial strain. We cannot help the instinctive response to stress known as the "fight-or-flight syndrome," which enables us to deal with perceived threats but can also have negative health effects, according to the MayoClinic.com. However, we can learn to reduce the negative impact of stress on the body. Stress-reduction techniques may take some practice, but are often a safer and more rewarding approach than medications.
Step 1
Practice a hobby or craft. Spending time indulging in something creative and calming, such as gardening, painting or dancing, can help take your focus off everyday stressors. In the end, you'll be refreshed and better able to tackle everyday challenges.
Step 2
Eat well. Maintaining a healthy diet has obvious health benefits, such as weight reduction and heart health, but wholesome foods can also increase energy, helping you keep up with a heavy workload. With healthy eating habits, you'll feel better about what you have eaten and accomplished.
Step 3
Exercise daily. For those who are not athletically inclined, you do not have to become a fitness guru to experience calmed nerves through exercise. An early morning walk requires only a sound pair of sneakers. The benefits extend to both the body and mind, and can be gleaned in just 30 minutes daily, reports MayoClinic.com.
Step 4
Plan ahead. Be proactive and head off stress by leaving earlier for work, packing a lunch and taking shortcuts to save time later. You may find yourself enjoying a leisurely commute, avoiding lunch lines and feeling calm rather than hurried.
Step 5
Limit your association with negative people. While you cannot always exclude your neighbors or co-workers from your life, you can curtail their negativity---and its effect on you---by choosing not to spend time with them whenever possible. Chat with positive people and allow their optimism to improve your mood and calm your nerves.
Step 6
Laugh. The old adage, "Laughter is the best medicine," holds true. In 2003, the Indiana State University School of Nursing found that humor not only had psychological benefits for patients, but also improved physical health by increasing immune system functioning. When your nerves are frayed, find something to laugh about.
Things You'll Need
- Sneakers
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