Here are the simplest ways to relieve anxiety and stress

Anxiety is a normal and often a healthy emotion. In general, 70% of adults say they feel anxiety on a daily basis. But, when a person regularly feels disproportionate levels of anxiety, it might become a medical disorder. So, here are 16 simple ways to relieve stress and anxiety-

Exercise 

Exercise plays a vital role in combating stress. It might look contradictory, but when you put physical stress on your body through exercise, it can relieve mental stress. Exercise lowers your body’s stress hormones (cortisol). It also helps to release endorphins (natural painkillers and mood boosters). Anxiety can cause insomnia, but exercise can improve your sleep quality. Regular exercise makes you feel confident. Activities involving repetitive movements of large muscles can be stress-relieving, such as walking, jogging.

Consider supplements 

Several food supplements help to reduce stress and anxiety. Here are some of such supplements –

  • Lemon balm
  • Omega-3 fatty acids
  • Ashwagandha 
  • Green tea
  • Valerian
  • Kava kava     

Light a candle

You can feel relaxed and soothing by just lighting up a scented candle or by using essential oils. This method is called aromatherapy. Some of the most calming scents are rose, lavender, vetiver, bergamot, roman chamomile, neroli, frankincense, sandalwood, ylang-ylang, orange blossom, geranium.

Reduce your caffeine intake

High doses of caffeine present in coffee, tea, chocolate, and energy drinks can increase anxiety. So find your tolerance level of caffeine and reduce its intake accordingly.

Write it down

Stress can change your aura and makes your thoughts harmful; in this situation, you can write down the things which make you feel grateful. Gratitude helps in relieving stress.

Chew gum

Studies have shown that people who chewed gum had a more robust sense of wellbeing and lower stress. So, it is advised that every time you feel stressed, just pop gum in your mouth.

Spend time with your loved ones

Nothing can match the sense of happiness we feel after spending some quality time with our loved ones; this happens due to the release of oxytocin, often called the love hormone. So, hang out with your family and friends.

Laugh 

It’s always hard to feel anxious while you’re laughing. Laughing relieves tension by relaxing your muscles, boosting your mood. So, try watching funny TV shows or movies.

Learn to say “no”

Sometimes you may feel overwhelmed due to many responsibilities so, take control of your life and change the things that are causing stress. Be selective about what you take on.

Avoid procrastination

Procrastination will only increase your workload so, get in the habit of making a to-do list. So always give yourself realistic deadlines and work your way down the list.

Yoga

Yoga, another popular stress relief method, affects your nervous system and stress response by lowering cortisol levels, blood pressure, and heart rate.

Cuddling

Positive physical contact such as cuddling, kidding, sex can help release oxytocin and lower cortisol, relieving your stress.

Practice mindfulness

It includes mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, yoga, practices that anchor you to the present moment.

Deep breathing

Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, releasing stress hormones, which fastens your heartbeat, breathing. The goal of deep breathing is to lower your breathing rate allowing you to feel more peaceful.

These tips will surely help you to relieve stress and anxiety and will improve your overall work-life balance.