10 Natural Ways To Combat Stress

Stress. We deal with it every single day. Stress doesn’t have to be a negative thing as “good” stress can also put your body out of whack.

Before you reach for any type of medication look to these 10 natural ways to fight stress on a daily basis.

1. Walking
Fresh air does amazing things to our senses and well-being. Walking for just 30 minutes a day increases our mental sharpness.

2. Write
Bring out a journal or notepad and start writing. Writing is very therapeutic. It’s a way for many people to deal with their thoughts and feelings. It brings clarity for the mind and it’s a good tool for problem solving.

3. Exercise
Working out is a proven method to calm the mind and relax the body during stressful times. Hormones are release during exercise that helps us focus better on things and it brings us more balance. People who exercise daily also sleep better and have a stronger immune system.

4. Deep Breathing
Deep breathing frees your mind of negativity and provides a sense of inner peace and tranquility. It will quiet and clear the mind of distractions. You will feel much more content and relaxed. The best part is you can do this anytime, anywhere as it only takes a few minutes.

5. Laughter
I would always feel better after a good, hearty laugh. Naturally, you would feel more lighthearted and positive.

6. Yoga
Not only does yoga reduce stress, there are multiple benefits like sleeping better, increase strength and endurance, lowers blood pressure and heart rate and much more.

7. Eat Well
Processed foods are way too accessible and target people who have hectic lives, but you can create healthy meals in 30 minutes if your kitchen is stocked properly. Take the time each week to have planned, home cooked meals. Over the weekend, make bigger batches, proportion them and freeze it.

8. Music
Listening to music is just one of those things that get you up and moving. You can enjoy different types of music to help you relax, meditate or exercise.

9. Aromatherapy
A few drops of essential oils in a bath, on a tissue or cotton ball to smell or in some boiled water to scent the room can lift your spirits, soothe your nerves, combat fatigue and tension.

10. Tea
There are a variety of herbal teas you can enjoy drinking to bring relaxation and calmness to your life. Chai tea has a combination of ingredients that offers a lot of health benefits. There are spices that lower blood pressure and regulate blood sugar, remove toxins from the liver, aids in digestion, and contain antioxidants. If you;’re not drinking herbal teas, limit your caffeinated tea intake.

These are all sound alternatives to fight stress daily. Even if the world is moving at a fast pace, take the time to slow down, breathe and take it one day at a time.

~Sophia