How to have STRESS-FREE LIFE ?

 

Here are 8 tips for Stress Management

1. Realize when it is causing a problem and identify the causes.

An important step in tackling stress is to realize when it is a problem for you and make a the connection between the physical and emotional signs you are experiencing and the pressures you are faced with. It is important not to ignore physical warning signs such as tense muscles, feeling over-tired and experiencing headaches or migraines. 

Once you have recognized you are experiencing stress, try to identify the underlying causes.  Sort the possible reasons for your stress into those with a practical solution, those that will get better anyway given time, and those you can't do anything about.  Take control by taking small steps towards the things you can improve.

Think about a plan to address the things that you can. This might involve setting yourself realistic expectations and prioritizing essential commitments. If you feel overwhelmed, ask people to help with the tasks you have to do and say no to things that you cannot take on. 

2. Build meaningful relationships - Spread happiness.

We are made to interact and connect with others. Without meaningful relationships, we are lonely and isolated. We’re happier when we pursue happiness with others. Find the right people to be associated with. Hang out with happy people as moods are contagious and feelings can be transferred from one to another.

3. Accept imperfections & Be You!!

Most of us strive for perfection -- we desire to push ourselves to be our best. But to be truly happy, you must embrace the imperfection that is part of life. Perfection is impossible, and holding ourselves and others to these standards is futile. We will always end up feeling let down. Accept that life is imperfect and recognize that there are beauty and grace in that imperfection.

Stop comparing yourself to everyone around you. Most importantly, stop comparing your things to all the things everyone else has. 

Social media has a way of making us feel like everyone else has it better than us. How often does scrolling through your newsfeed make you feel negative emotions? Allowing envy and resentment to take root robs us of appreciating what we have.

4. Find your work-life balance.

Work takes up a lot of our day, but it shouldn’t be the only thing we do. It’s important to pursue activities and interests beyond our job. Do you have a hobby? Are you spending time with friends and loved ones? Are you getting exercise? Creating balance in your life will reduce stress and give you other outlets to express yourself and have fun.

5. Cultivate gratitude & focus on Positive by making your own affirmations. 

Find ways to cultivate gratitude daily. Giving thanks and being grateful for all you have will make you happier and more content. Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what you have received in life. Those gifts may be tangible or intangible. When you spend time each day acknowledging all that is good in life, you’ll see there is more good than you realize, and you’ll find that sadness, anxiety, and depression are diminished.

Eg. I love myself.  I can do better than this.

6. Give back to society.

Be generous with your time and your money. Knowledge sharing, guidance, sharing your resources. Those who are generous in giving back to others tend to have good health, perhaps because giving has a feel-good effect that lowers blood pressure and stress.

7. Spend time in nature with yourself.

Studies have shown that the more time we spend in nature, and the more we relate to the natural world around us, the greater our sense of happiness. Our connection to nature also plays a role in maintaining positive mental health. Self-time will help you introspect and understand yourself better.

8. Listen to and engage with music. 

Listening to music lifts our spirits. It makes us feel better, in part because listening to music causes our brains to release dopamine, a neurochemical connected to pleasure and reward. Those who engage with music through dance or through attending concerts report high levels of happiness and a sense of well-being.

Your stress level also decides what, how much, when you eat, sleep, and workout.  Please note consistency is a must. Making an effort to apply all the tips discussed every day of your life can help you be Healthy and Happy for sure.