Stress can become overwhelming, unless you have effective coping strategies. If you’re looking for the best ways to ease stress symptoms, these five ideas are just what you need.
1 . The natural world
According to an article in Science Daily, ‘New research has found that as little as 10 minutes in a natural setting can help you to feel happier and lessen the effects of both physical and mental stress.’
To reduce your stress symptoms, make sure you get outside regularly, to explore the natural world. You can choose any setting, whether it’s the beach or the forest. It can be helpful to choose a hobby to motivate you to get outside. You might try photography or biking. Whatever activity you choose, make spending time outdoors part of your regular routine.
- A gratitude journal
Research by Positive Psychology suggests that, ‘keeping a gratitude journal causes less stress, improves the quality of sleep, and builds emotional awareness.’ When you’re feeling stressed out and blue, it can help to make a list of the things you are grateful for.
To help you start a gratitude journal you might want to use the ‘Grateful’ app. The app makes expressing gratitude easy, with plenty of prompts and ideas. When you express more gratitude you’ll ease anxiety levels and start to feel more positive.
- Plant based remedies
Several studies have indicated that CBD is effective to reduce the symptoms of stress and anxiety. According to HealthLine, ‘CBD can help with PTSD symptoms, such as having nightmares and replaying negative memories.’ You can buy cbd in the form of cbd oil, or try some tasty Vegan CBD Gummies.
For other herbal remedies for stress, try valerian root or passionflower. Both of these can be purchased in the form of tea or capsules. With the right plant based remedies you’ll also reduce anxiety and get a better night’s sleep.
- A good exercise regime
According to the Mayo Clinic, ‘Exercise in almost any form can act as a stress reliever. Being active can boost your feel-good endorphins and distract you from daily worries.’ Challenge yourself to exercise at least three times a week, even if it’s only in short sessions.
If you find it hard to motivate yourself it can be helpful to get an exercise buddy. Alternatively choose activities that you find fun, such as dance or swimming. If you don’t have much time to spare, check out the ‘7-minute Workout App’. It’s a great tool to help you workout at home.
- Meditation
Research from MedicineNet suggests that, ‘10 minutes per day can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation.’ To start practicing meditation you might like to try a mindfulness and meditation app. Some of the most popular tools are Calm, Meditopia and Inscape.
Different techniques work better for different people, so you might like to try out a few options.
