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How can I Reduce Stress?

Sherry Holetzky
Sherry Holetzky

Stress can quickly take over people's lives, leaving them feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. In extreme cases, stress can even cause your health to deteriorate. Everyone experiences stressors in their lives, but learning to cope with and reduce stress is the key to a happier, more balanced life.

Reduce stress by making sure your expectations are realistic:

Listening to some favorite music can reduce stress.
Listening to some favorite music can reduce stress.

Many people have completely unreasonable expectations for their lives. They demand too much from themselves and from others, and they soon find themselves disappointed. If you are feeling overwhelmed by stress, it may be that you are pushing yourself too hard. Slow down for a while, and make sure that your expectations are in line with your current abilities and resources. If not, adjust the plan.

Reduce stress by setting attainable goals:

Deep breathing may help reduce stress.
Deep breathing may help reduce stress.

Do not set yourself up for failure. Too many times people do this because they set impossible goals for themselves. Instead, set smaller goals that are within your reach. Make a list of what needs to be accomplished, and cross off even simple things as they are accomplished. Instead of feeling stressed out, you will begin to feel a sense of reward and accomplishment each time you are able to achieve a new goal.

Reduce stress by seeking help from others:

Deep breathing can help people relax in stressful situations.
Deep breathing can help people relax in stressful situations.

You don't have to do it all; everyone has limitations. It is okay to ask others for help, even if it simply means seeking insight from someone with more experience on a given matter. Discuss problems with a trusted friend or family member. Sometimes, just talking through a problem can help create a solution, once a person has the chance to calm down and see the situation from a different perspective.

Reduce stress with physical activity:

Asking others for help might ease stress.
Asking others for help might ease stress.

Taking a walk or a run is often a good way to clear your mind. Exercise is a solid technique that will help release frustrations and reduce stress. Also, try stretching exercises to loosen up stiff, tense muscles, and deep breathing to promote calmness and relaxation.

Reduce stress by making time for yourself:

It may seem impossible, especially if you are already packing 25 hours of work into a 24-hour day, but you need to set aside at least a few minutes for yourself each and every day. Even if it is just a few moments to listen to your favorite music or call a friend, take the time. You're worth it.

Discussion Comments

bookworm

It is right that being physically fit helps the body better deal with stress. A lean and fit body eliminates sodium from the blood at a faster rate, and therefore reduces strain on the heart and arteries.

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    • Listening to some favorite music can reduce stress.
      By: WavebreakMediaMicro
      Listening to some favorite music can reduce stress.
    • Deep breathing may help reduce stress.
      By: bertys30
      Deep breathing may help reduce stress.
    • Deep breathing can help people relax in stressful situations.
      By: byheaven
      Deep breathing can help people relax in stressful situations.
    • Asking others for help might ease stress.
      By: Alexander Raths
      Asking others for help might ease stress.
    • Stress reduction techniques emphasize the need for adequate sleep and good nutrition in order to alleviate stress and fatigue.
      By: zea_lenanet
      Stress reduction techniques emphasize the need for adequate sleep and good nutrition in order to alleviate stress and fatigue.
    • Focusing on personal accomplishments can help a person deal with stress.
      By: vgstudio
      Focusing on personal accomplishments can help a person deal with stress.
    • Aromatherapy can often help a person de-stress.
      By: luigi giordano
      Aromatherapy can often help a person de-stress.