12 TIPS to manage stress

1.       Remind yourself to stay calm before your stress level rises. 

2.       Practice taking deep, slow abdominal breaths – you can use this relaxing breathing technique to manage stress and anxiety anywhere and anytime.

3.       Say “relax” to yourself as a verbal reminder to keep cool.

4.       Draw on your spirituality and religion; pray or meditate if it can provide emotional support and help provide relief.

5.       Lightly massage neck and shoulder muscles, which tend to tense up under distress. Besides relieving muscle tension, this can also improve blood circulation.

6.       Take some time out to listen to light, relaxing music or any sound that make you feel better.

7.       Participate in fun recreational activities such as having a picnic on a beautiful day, swimming, hiking or camping. Spending some time in nature with loved one, even if for a little while, may lighten your mood.

8.       Exercise to release endorphins (happy hormones) while relieving muscle tension and keeping yourself in shape.

9.       Practice positive thinking as much as you can. This involves being able to remain positive and optimistic while facing adversity in negative environments.

10.   Talk to a confidante – this can be a close friends or family member who is able to provide support I your time of need.

11.   Eat a healthy, balanced diet – as the saying goes, you are what you eat.

12.   Manage sleep wisely – if you are not getting enough sleep at night, take a short nap during the day.

Source: THE STARS