Stress is one of the most natural feelings we feel because we are human.
It’s simple as that.
We feel the weight of this emotion when things in our lives start piling up and we don’t find coping mechanisms.
Allow me to share some coping mechanisms that have worked for me and that research has recommended.
1) Take relevant breaks
By taking much needed breaks in between tasks, we allow ourselves time to regroup our thoughts before starting again.
However, healthy breaks are different from procrastination.
Prioritize what tasks needs to get done and take breaks in between tasks.
This is so you can have time to rest mentally before preparing for the next.
2) Outside time
Taking time to go for a walk or simply just getting some sunlight is a big way to reduce stress levels.
It was proven that being in nature reduces cortisol levels which is a stress hormone while boosting dopamine production.
Nature is a stress reliever we take for granted, so start utilizing it as much as you can !
Check link for further information – https://www.ontarioparks.com/parksblog/mental-health-benefits-outdoors/
3) Physical Activity
Physical activity whether yoga, working out, or anything else will also help reduce your stress levels.
Mainly because it increases endorphin production.
However, It also provides an outlet for you to take out your feelings as well as helping with your overall well being.
Breathing exercises will also help by allowing you to calm your mind and center back yourself.
This allows for you to handle the tasks or situations that may be stressing you out by taking a healthier approach.
4) Practice Gratitude
Practicing Gratitude helps us stay grateful for how much things we already have in our life and that sometimes we stress over things that are minor.
If it doesn’t affect your life in 5 years then you shouldn’t spend more than 5 mins stressing over it.
Don’t stress over things that don’t impact your life, while forgetting about the things that do.
5) Hobbies
Finding new hobbies helps keep balance in your life.
It is important to find hobbies that set your soul on fire and that will actually make you happy.
Finding things that actually speak to your soul is so important in finding yourself.
This helps you enjoy your life no matter what may stress you out.
6) De clutter and organization
Cleaning out your space or even rearranging your room will make you feel motivated to get things done.
It wouldn’t make you feel that dread whenever you have things to do.
Therefore, making you feel less stressed but more willing to attempt tasks.
7) Journal
Journaling is a coping mechanism that gets by passed all the time.
Mainly because people are not willing to try it, however, this is one of the most effective techniques.
Writing down your feelings helps you identify where your stress stems from.
Understanding the root causes can better help you equip yourself on how to solve those problems.
8) Positive Affirmations
Positive Affirmations are also an overlooked coping mechanism.
By saying or writing your affirmations will reaffirm the good you already have in your life.
A reminder that you are well beyond capable of dealing with whatever life throws at you.
9) Talk to friends
The people you surround yourself with have a direct impact on your life and feelings.
Talking or spending time with friends will give you the motivation you need or give you a break to just have fun.
People who are important in your life will give you the booster you need to tackle the world and support you throughout.
Take advantage of that and enjoy the little moments.
10) Work smarter
Taking on more work or more things than you can handle is a big part of what leads us to being stressed or overwhelmed.
We are the only ones who know what we are capable of.
Hence, we shouldn’t be taking on extra things to prove anything to others.
Take on tasks that are more meaningful to you and that will faster benefit you in the long run.
All of these tips may not work for everyone but find what works best for you.
Don’t handle your stress just because you need to or feel like there’s no other options.
Actively find healthy ways to cope and stick to those.
You have control over your life not anyone or anything else.
