If you're constantly dealing with stress, you may need to consider changing a few different aspects of your lifestyle. Life has a sneaky way of getting out of control, whether you have a chaotic home, stressful job, a ton of bills or just bad habits. Below are a few easy ways to help reduce stress in your life.
Simplify your schedule.
When you feel like life is pulling you in a million directions, the best thing to do is learn to say no. We know this can be extremely difficult, but you'll feel less overwhelmed if you're only doing what is absolutely essential. Decide what your priorities are and keep them in mind when making your schedule.
Get active!
Walking, hiking, playing a sport, running and yoga are just a few of the many active things you can incorporate into your life. Exercising is a great way to lower your cortisol levels, which can cause stress and anxiety if they are out of whack.
Develop one healthy habit every month.
We suggest eating fruits or vegetables for snacks, flossing every day, quitting tobacco or alcohol use, drinking water instead of sugary drinks and scaling back on fast food. Your lifestyle will be 12 times healthier in just one year! ;)
Do something calming.
Some of our favorite calming activities include napping, reading, writing, yardwork, meditation, walking, massage therapy, yoga, facials, and baking or cooking. Find one or two activities that relax you, and be sure to incorporate them into your routine. Adopting a relaxing pastime helps to keep you balanced as a person and as a family.
Do something you enjoy every day.
Taking your mind off of your daily life and letting go helps create an even flow in your day. Fun activities don’t have to cost money. These can include board games, walking, playing with your kids and/or pets, sculpting, drawing, dancing, skating – whatever you choose, make sure laughter is involved.
It’s normal to feel stressed out, especially if you’re balancing school, a full-time job and a family. If you're feeling like you need some extra support, you can contact our Student Services Team for any assistance or resources you might need.
Life will never be completely stress-free, and stress at reasonable levels can help us grow. The challenge is finding and maintaining that perfect balance.