When we are nervous or stressed breathing tends to be shallow and rapid, whereas we breathe more deeply and slowly when we are relaxed. Deep breathing can make you feel much calmer. Try taking micro relaxation breaks - just 5 deep breaths will momentarily switch off stress so try to make this a regular habit throughout the day.
Positive thinking and a willingness to accept things outside our control are good ways to reduce tension. Step back from difficult circumstances and see them objectively, as the solution to a problem may come to you. You may even be able to laugh at the situation which causes your body to release stress-reducing endorphins - giving you an instant lift and making everything seem that little bit better.
Body balance work such as shiatsu and deep tissue massage can help your body and mind connect in a way that can help you de-stress and promote a healthy sense of well-being. Reiki can also be beneficial for people who suffer with daily stress on a regular basis.
Exercise releases 'feel good' endorphins that help simultaneously raise your energy and relax you. Doing 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise at least three to four times a week is recommended, but the good news is that the exercise doesn't have to be exhausting and you can do anything that gets the heart rate up such as walking, jogging, yoga, tai chi or simply start with some housework.
Aromatherapy is a great way to relax and de-stress. Aromatherapy oils can be used alone or in blends for massage, inhalation, compresses, baths and in special burners. Chamomile, Jasmine, Lavender, Petitgrain and Ylang Ylang are amongst the most recommended oils for relaxation. All of these oils can be diluted in a carrier oil for massage, sprinkled into the bath, dabbed on to a pillow if you can't sleep or burned to gently scent your home or office.
If you're under pressure, having trouble switching off or feeling overwhelmed, Bach® Original Flower Remedies are also effective in helping you to manage your emotions to fulfill your potential. Some of the most popular homeopathic Bach Original Flower Remedies for common conditions include: Mimulus which can help us overcome shyness and specific fears, Larch if a lack of confidence in your abilities is preventing you from moving forward, Elm - when feeling overwhelmed by your many responsibilities or, White Chestnut - when your mind is running over the same thing.
Homeopathy is traditionally used to help relieve the symptoms of daily stress.The homeopathic remedies Lycopodium and Kali phos are great stress busters and can be taken alongside RESCUE® Remedy.
The Alexander technique is a way of improving balance, posture and co-ordination that helps to release the unconscious physical tension that many sufferers of stress hold. Mastering this simple technique will help you deal better with every day stress, aches and pains.
What we eat can make a huge difference to how we feel.
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Eat regularly and avoid skipping meals.
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Eat a healthy balanced diet including all the five food groups, eat plenty of fruit and vegetables.
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Reduce or cut out caffeine and alcohol as they are stimulants and can have the same effects on the body as stress.
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Keep smoking to a minimum to try and give up.
Meditation has been shown to boost the immune system, calm the mind, get rid of negative thoughts and to restore balance. Millions of people swear by it! Meditation stills the brain, ignores thoughts coming into your mind and lets them drift out again. The more you practice meditation the quieter your thoughts will become. Set aside five minutes every day when you won't be interrupted.
If you feel like you’ve had enough and are about to explode, follow these simple tips to restore focus and regain inner calm wherever you are:
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Relax – Take deep breaths. Inhale deeply and exhale slowly.
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Exercise – Learn some basic yoga techniques or just take a 10 minute walk.
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Smile – Think of a happy time. It is near impossible to keep frowning while smiling and laughter stimulates the production of mood enhancing endorphins.
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Calm – Let your imagination take you to a calm and tranquil place that exudes peace, serenity and beauty.
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Use your lunch break – Take time out for yourself. A walk in the park can do wonders for your mood and it will also help your work more efficiently in the afternoon.
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Escape – If you are able to, walk away. Removing yourself from a stressful situation can give you time to restore some perspective.
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Presentation at work or looming deadlines. Be prepared and get a plan. The more you know and understand your subject the less you will stress. Break your task into small, manageable pieces and address potential problems early on.
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Shopping. Make an effort to be as social and pleasant as possible. Making things brighter for someone else will make you stress less - it's a win-win situation.
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Dealing with difficult people. Always start a conversation with a complement or a positive statement; this will help prevent a defensive or aggressive response because it shows that you are considering them.
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Traveling or commuting. Use your time in a pleasurable or satisfying way. For example, you could make plans for a life change or just listen to your favorite music.
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