Stress: The silent killer. Did you know that too much stress raises your blood pressure and can result in physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches and even weight gain! Reducing stress is a proven way to help you feel better, lose weight and stay healthier, but reducing stress isn’t always that easy! Between kids, my marriage and work I don’t have time (or the money, if I’m being completely honest) to hit up a spa on even a semi-regular basis. I think this is probably the case for most moms.
As beneficial and relaxing as a facial and full-body massage are, it’s simply not feasible for most women. But, there are plenty of other ways you can reduce your stress so you can live a happier, healthier life. Here are a few of my favorite ways to get empty my body of that nervous/anxious/frustrated energy:
Ways to Reduce Stress
Hot bath and a book: I love taking baths. We live in an apartment so we have one bathroom with a smaller tub, but heaven help me, I make it work. Fill the tub up with your favorite body wash and enjoy some bubbles while you soak your cares away. I usually bring a book because it’s one of the only times I can read guilt-free.
Exercise: I’m working on slimming down and one of the side benefits I’ve noticed is reduced stress. The first few sessions are hell, especially if you haven’t exercised in a while, but give yourself a few days and you’ll notice immediate benefits. My favorite workouts are when I finally get that “high” at the end. I feel energized and completely relaxed. I may be out of breathe and as red as cherry tomato, but I feel better.
Scream: Obviously, I’m not condoning screaming at your children or your spouse. But a good holler can make you feel tons better. Go in your bedroom, stick your face in a pillow and scream as loud as you can. You’ll probably start crying, which is also a good stress reliever.
Get it out: When I was little my mom came up with a fun way to deal with out anger. She drew a picture of an angry face on a piece of paper and taped it to the wall. Then, she pulled out a basket of folded socks. When we were angry we could take the socks and throw them at the picture on the wall. We were supposed to do this instead of yelling or lashing out at our siblings, but it also helps when you are stressed.
Deep breathing: There is a reason we tell our kids to take a deep breath when they are angry. Taking deep breaths help bring your heart rate under control. When you are angry or super stressed your heart rate and blood pressure go up. Taking several deep, controlled breathes will help clear your mind and bring your heart rate back to normal.
To this end I also recommend regular meditation. Start your day off calm and relaxed and you’ll be able to handle your stress better!
How do you reduce stress
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