Although the weather may be gradually improving, stress is still a factor in the lives of many people. If everyday life is slowly weighing you down, you may found yourself feeling anxious and tense about work deadlines or personal problems. It doesn’t matter if you are a student, parent or even neurosurgeon, we are all human and prone to feeling stressed at some point! Prolonged stress can start to take a toll on one’s body and mind. From high blood pressure to depression, there are a number of ways that stress can affect one’s well-being. It is important to remember that, often times, stress doesn’t just go away. Luckily, there are some simple ways you can reduce your stress. For anyone wanting to feel better, we’ve curated a few easy ways to beat your stress this spring. 

Get Lots of Sleep

While stress can make it hard to sleep, it is important to get the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep each night. Lack of sleep can make it hard to focus or be productive at work or school. When you are tired, it makes is much more difficult to be at the top of your game. This inability to do your best can hinder your ability to complete tasks, which may cause more stress as a result. When it comes to sleep and stress it can become a vicious cycle, but it is important to be well-rested in order to reduce stress.

Exercise

You don’t have to have a gym membership or fancy workout gear to get some exercise. It can be as simple as talking a walk around the block or taking a break at work to stretch. The important part is to get your blood pumping, as this will release endorphins that will boost your mood. Taking time to exercise, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day, will also give you a break from thinking about what you are currently stressed about.

Meditate

Life is busy and depending on jobs and family situations, we are often forced to move at high paces. It is important to slow down once in a while and take time to just be present in the moment. Meditation can be in the form of yoga or simply in the comfort of your home, away from any distractions. By meditating, you are taking a well-deserved breath and a brief escape from your busy schedule.

Eat Healthy

It’s easy to fall into a fast food routine when you are busy with day-to-day tasks. Many of us enjoy the luxury of being able to grab something quick while on-the-go. However, a lot of fast foods are high in fats and sugars and while you may experience a little pick-me-up, it won’t last long. Meal prepping is a good way to ensure you are eating right and by pre packing meals, you eliminate the issue of figuring out what you’re going to eat.

Talk to Someone

Harbouring your stress will not have a good affect on your mind or body. Sometimes it’s important to vent and let it all out. By talking to a friend, family member or co-worker you are able to release your thoughts and you may even find a new perspective on what is causing you stress. Many people often think they are burdening others with their problems, but the key to healthy relationships is being able to have these types of conversations.

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