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Most of us experience stress on a regular basis. It not only interferes with concentration and disturbs sleep, but also harms health. We offer seven ways to cope with stress and cheer up.
Troubles at work, problems with children, disagreements with a partner – all this spoils our mood every day. Stress affects us more than it seems. We get tired, angry, quarrel with loved ones and get sick.
To cope with stress, you need to maintain a good mood. There are many ways to do this. They don’t require a lot of time or money. Here’s something worth trying.
Practice deep breathing
Usually we do not pay attention to how we breathe. Of course, we get enough oxygen anyway, but by practicing deep breathing, you can reduce the level of anxiety and tension.
If you feel like you are starting to worry, do a simple exercise.
Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 2 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds. Repeat at least three times to clear your mind and slow down the flow of thoughts.
Satisfy your hunger with healthy food
The ad claims that “you are not you when you are hungry”, and this is not too far from the truth. If you do not satisfy your hunger for a long time, psychological tension and irritability arise.
Keep healthy snacks with you at all times, such as apples or nuts. This will help maintain a good mood and clarity of thought.
Take up tai chi
Tai chi (Chinese martial arts) improves quality of life, mood and energy levels. Tai chi does not require great physical exertion, so classes do not harm the joints and are accessible to everyone. There are even exercises for people in wheelchairs.
It is not necessary to sign up for paid classes to learn tai chi, you can find many free video lessons on the Internet.
Choose some exercises for beginners and learn
This will allow you to practice tai chi whenever you feel tension or discomfort. Of course, these exercises will not eliminate stressful situations, but they will help you cope better with them.
Go relax in nature
Walking in the woods is the simplest and most accessible way to improve your mood. Rest in nature reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression and improves mental performance. In addition, walking or jogging, like other physical activities, has a positive effect on the psychological state.
Relax with a book and a cup of tea
It is a common misconception that it takes a long time to relax and relieve psychological stress. Because of this, many people do not take enough care of themselves. Scientists have proven that even 10 minutes of rest can reduce stress and improve mood.
According to studies, reading reduces stress levels by 68%, and drinking tea or coffee by 54%. If these two activities are combined, you may not be able to relieve stress 100%, but you will certainly feel calmer.
Choose the right colors
Colors affect our psyche. Some are soothing, others can increase anxiety.
For example, green is associated with harmony, tranquility, balance, development and renewal.
By adding green tones to your home or workplace, you can reduce your daily stress levels.
Enjoy the pleasant aroma
The sense of smell plays an important role in memory and influences mood. Smells help to relax or give energy and can instantly improve mood. The aromas of orange, pine, lavender, vanilla and freshly cut grass are best suited for this.
Grab a bottle of essential oil. When you are upset, you feel an excess of stress and tension, inhale the aroma, and you will immediately feel a little better. Take care of yourself and soon you will feel your mood getting better.
About the author: Mike Bundrent is a psychotherapist.