Being under stress is not fun. Tension headaches, insomnia, and back pain are just a few symptoms of taking on too much. These symptoms are uncomfortable to say the least, but if not addressed, they can lead to more serious, health-threatening ailments.
According to the American Psychological Association, one half of Americans say that stress has a negative impact on their personal and professional lives, adding that stress is responsible for keeping them up at night. The American Institute of Stress claims that workplace stress costs more than $300 billion dollars each year in health care, and according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, stressed out workers incur an average of $600 more a year due to stress related needs compared with non-stressed out workers.
Whether you work, are retired, or are a stay-at-home mom, if you are under stress, please take note of the following five tips for releasing tension from your life. Not only will it help you, it may even relieve the stress from those around you.
Breathe
It is easy. Right now take some very long, slow, deep breaths. The flood of fresh oxygen to your mind and body will work wonders for you, and it will happen instantly.
Stand up Straight
Good posture sends the message to our brain, and to those around us, that we are strong, capable and ready to take on the tasks at hand. Slouching creates an internal and external image of lack and weakness, so show the world you are able and “stand up straight” like your mother always told you.
Say No
Setting boundaries by refusing a work assignment, completing a favor or taking on a new task is not about being lazy or irresponsible. On the contrary, saying no is very healthy and can help you preserve precious time for yourself that you need to unwind and relax.
Exercise
Studies suggest that getting some exercise, especially yoga, helps to rewire the brain for reducing incidences of anxiety and depression. Get up and move any way that you can. Take a walk, do yoga, go to a Zumba class, or just do some wild dancing in your living room.
Think Positively
Realize that the only constant is change, and that also includes a change in your level of stress and tension. You must trust that “this too shall pass” and move beyond those awful gripping sensations that keep you stuck in a rut of worry. Believe in yourself, think positive thoughts every day, and take consistent steps towards zapping stress for good.
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