How to Manage and Cope with Stress

In these tumultuous times, we are plagued by many issues and problems that affect our mind. Dealing with loss, disease, pandemic, being locked up in our homes can cause stress and mental fatigue. A negative environment or interaction in our daily lives can also induce a loss of mental balance. Stress is a factor that makes us prone to a multitude of diseases of the body and mind like high blood pressure, heart problems, anxiety, and depression. People often partake in unhealthy mechanisms to deal with the daily stress of life. But there are methods that can aid in coping with stress in a healthy and appropriate way.

Stress-busting activities:

Do things that make you happy. As soon as you feel the tension building up, take up a hobby like drawing, painting, cooking, listening to music, or whatever activity through which you derive joy. You can do it for just 10 to 15 mins to relieve stress and feel better.

Exercise:

Being physically active definitely improves the quality of life. Along with making your body more functional, it also helps your mind. It can ameliorate your sleeping patten and also improve your mood. Endorphins and endo cannabinoids are released in your body when you exercise and these hormones reduce anxiety and stress. You could take up running, swimming, yoga, cycling and even go for a 15-20 minute walk everyday.

Nutritional Diet:

A balanced diet that contains all the nutrients will not only aid your body but also help you deal with stress. It can lower your blood pressure, put you in a better mood, improve your immunity. Antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin C, magnesium, etc. reduce the effect of stress on our bodies. Processed food definitely doesn’t help with stress so it is a good idea to stay away from junk food. Also, supplements like Rhodiola Rosea provide natural support for stress relief.

Relaxation Techniques:

When you are under stress, there are certain techniques that can immediately help you feel better. Deep breathing helps the body to relax instantly by sending enough oxygen to the brain. This also relaxes our nervous system. You could also try meditation which reduces stress, calms your anxiety, and make your mood better. You need to find a quiet space where you can be comfortable and then you need to focus on your breathing or an object.

Talking about your stress inducers and sharing your problems with friends and family is a good idea. Sharing can make you feel better as you have someone to listen to you which has a relaxing effect. In the current situation especially, anything can trigger stress and tension. Thus, it becomes imperative for us to find healthy mechanisms to deal with the problems of life.