How Can I Fix My Feelings of Stress?

Maybe we can relate to “The Office” character, Michael Scott, when he says, “mo money mo problems.”

1. Progressive Muscle Relaxation

A 5-15 minute exercise that allows you to release tension within your body and incorporate slow breathing to help calm your nervous system.

Here is a video guide you can try.

2. Slow Diaphragmatic Breathing

-Breathing in and out of our nose only. -Inhale for 4 seconds and exhale for 6 seconds. -Repeat 5-6 times.

After doing the above, try placing one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest.

As you inhale, feel your belly expand out like a balloon. As you exhale, feel your stomach contract back towards your spine.

Breathing at a slower pace and with diaphragm movements can help decrease your stress and make you feel more relaxed.

3. Write Your To-Do List Down

Instead of trying to keep track of every aspect of our schedule/workload in our head, write it down. Add some timeframes so you can be more organized. This can decrease feelings of stress or a sense of being overwhelmed.

4. Sun and Sweat

Get sunlight in the morning, which can help improve mood and sleep.

Try working up a sweat with some movement and note how you feel afterward.

1. Sleep Hygiene

Improving your sleep environment can help promote better sleep and give your brain and body more resilience to combat stressors.

2. Talk to Someone

Sometimes, we underestimate our ability to vent or talk with a friend.

Consider talking to a professional to help navigate some of the stress or anxiety you may be feeling.

Stress is not just one thing. Stress is multifaceted and needs to be approached from physical and psychological perspectives.

There are many items to do that can quickly help relieve stress and some longer-term solutions. Try some of these out, and let us know what worked for you!

For further reading on stress, check out: