No matter the reason, people are stressed. Stress can affect you in many ways. It is important to try to relax when you are feeling stressed. Here are some simple ways to relax even when you are feeling stressed.

We all have times of stress

We have all been stressed at times, but when you are feeling stressed, it can be hard to relax. This can affect your mood and your health. Learning how to relax when you are feeling stressed can help you to stay healthy and happy. 

What does stress do to you

In the short term, stress can make it difficult to focus and solve problems. It can wear you out and make your tired, as well as make you nervous and irritable. 

Chronic stress can not only affect your mood it can take a toll on your physical and mental health. Chronic stress can lead to depression, anxiety, and insomnia. It can have physical effects like digestive problems and it can lower your immune system’s ability to fight colds and other illnesses. 

Ways to relax when you are feeling stressed

Breathe

Breathing in and out is one of the easiest ways to relax. The next time you are feeling stressed and need to relax, try sitting or laying down. Place your hands on your stomach and take deep slow breathes. Focus on each breath and breathe in for a count of 3 and then out for a count of 3. Do this 5 times or until you are feeling relaxed. 

Chewing Gum

If you are stressed about a deadline at work or school, try chewing gum. It relaxes you from clenching your jaw and it also gives a mental boost. It has been shown to help you be more productive when you are feeling stressed. 

Take a Walk

Taking a walk is a great way to clear your head. Physical activity helps to improve your mood and releases endorphins to help you to feel better. Making time on a daily basis to include exercise is good for you on multiple levels. It will keep your stress level down and it will help to relieve the stress you are feeling. 

Laugh

Laughing is a simple thing that has many health benefits. It can ease pain, give the immune system a boost and help to ease anxiety and depression. It is, also, a way to connect with other people. 

Visualise Being Calm

I am sure you have heard the expression “Find your happy place” It might sound like a cliche but it is truly a great way to relax when you are stressed. Find a quiet place to sit and relax. Think about things that are calming and relaxing. Think about things like sitting at the beach, listening to the rain, or children laughing. 

Sing

You don’t have to have singing ability to sing. Singing is shown to improve mood and decrease stress. Turn on your favourite upbeat and happy song and start singing. A study in Japan shows that even people who did not enjoy singing had an improvement in their moods.

Pin for later

Win a copy of Fearne Cotton’s Calm

To help you deal with stress in your life and learn how to relax, I am lucky enough to have a copy of Fearne Cotton’s Calm to giveaway.

Prize: Calm: Working through life’s daily stresses to find a peaceful centre by Fearne Cotton

To enter simply complete the Gleam widget below, all entries are optional and each one completed will gain you more entries into the random draw.