To avoid both short- and long-term health problems, you should get stress under control. Stress that stems from difficult situations, such as work, family problems or financial issues, can't always be avoided. However, learning ways to release the tension can help you to deal more positively with the particular circumstance rather than allowing it to blow up into a bigger problem. Practicing relaxation and coping techniques can help you to feel better and prevent any residual impact.
Step 1
View your particular problem from a realistic perspective; getting the problem under control can help you to de-stress. It's common for your fight-or-flight system to kick in at the first sign of a problem, which can cause you to blow the situation out of proportion and greatly increase your stress level. Evaluate the problem, think of solutions and develop an action plan.
Step 2
Recognize which situations you are in control of and have the ability to change versus the circumstances that are completely out of your hands. Trying to control situations that you are not able to can send your stress level soaring to overwhelming levels. Instead, allow yourself to relax by realizing that at times there is only so much you can do and that there are some problems that you are not able to solve.
Step 3
Engage in cardiovascular and/or strength-training workouts three to five times per week to help you release stress. Vigorous exercise allows you to burn off tension, which in turn can allow your mind to relax. Go for a run, play basketball with friends, lift weights or use a ball machine to hit tennis balls.
Step 4
Sleep regularly; every problem can seem much bigger when you are exhausted. Sleep can be difficult for people who are under stress --- but fatigue or being overly tired can exacerbate your tension.
Step 5
Indulge in a massage. Not only will a massage help to release the tension from your muscles but also it can be mentally beneficial to take 60 or 90 minutes out of your day or week just for yourself.
Step 6
Take up soothing activities that help you relax, such as meditating and tai chi. By focusing on your breath during meditation or the movements executed during a tai chi session, you are able to clear your mind and forget about your problems for a little while. A clear mind can help you to put the stressful situation in perspective and develop solutions.
Step 7
Talk to a therapist if you are unable to find any methods of releasing stress on your own. Habitual stress can lead to dangerous medical conditions; a therapist can help you to talk through your problems, release tension and find solutions.
Things You'll Need
- Running shoes
- Gym access
- Massage practitioner
- Therapist
