Stress is inevitable and it’s here to stay. So here are some ways to calm yourself down and not let stress engulf you. Many of these tips are easily done anywhere and at anytime. The rest are best done everyday to arm yourself against the ravages of a stressful life. Being calm is a wonderful state to be. So, do try these out.
1. Hand Massage
Use the thumb of one hand and press around the palm of the other hand for a soothing massage.
2. Palm Push
Push your palms together and hold for five to ten seconds.
3. Close Your Eyes
Shutting your eyes gives your brain a much-needed break.
4. Mindful Sighing
Breathe in to a count of five through your mouth, and then let out a loud sigh.
5. Wall Push
Push against the wall with flat palms while keeping your feet planted on the floor for five to ten seconds.
6. Yoga
Make yoga your daily ritual.
7. Deep Breathing Exercises
There are many breathing exercises that you can do. Here’s one of them. Inhale two, three, four. Hold two, three, four. Exhale two, three, four.
8. Low Impact Exercise
Low impact exercises like walking, especially in a natural surrounding, can have wonderful calming effect.
9 CBT Techniques
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) allows you to counter negative thoughts by noticing the positive feelings. However, for this technique, you will need the assistance of someone who’s trained in CBT.
10. Bubble Breath
Source: Brukner
Breathe in for five seconds, out for five seconds.
Imagine you have a wand of bubbles. When you breathe out, be careful not to pop it.
Place one flat palm on your heart, one flat palm on your belly.
Breathe in through your nose and hold your breath for five seconds.
Breathe out a large “bubble” though pursed lips, blow out for five seconds.
11. Journal
Writing is therapeutic so write about your stress, whether you write a cryptic short note or you write in great details about everything that makes you anxious.
12. Progressive Muscle Relaxation
PMR is a technique where you tense and release all your muscles to have a calming feeling. Here’s a video to guide you.
Hope this helped.