There’s the good stress … which is healthy. It protects you in times of emergency and motivates you be your best.
And then, there’s the bad stress … which is unhealthy, causing you mental, physical and emotional pain.
Here are some tried and tested ways to help you manage the bad stress in your life.
1. Be kind to yourself
Many of our stresses come from the little voice in our heads, which reminds us of the mistakes we’ve made. You know, the should’a, would’a, could’a voice? If you spoke to others that way, you’d have no friends!
Say kind things to yourself. Tell yourself you’re great, attractive, special, unique, kind, smart, capable, creative, loving … . etc, etc. Remind yourself that you are always doing your best at any moment.
2. Breathe
Stop for 5 minutes at least once a day and practice some deep breathing into your abdomen. Breath slowly into your belly through the nose and out through your mouth.
This is not only very calming, but great for the digestive system.
3. Be grateful
Make a list of all the things in your life that you are grateful for and recite the list to yourself each morning on waking.
If you feel down or stressed, reminding yourself of all the things that are good in your life, has a very uplifting effect.
And if you feel you can’t find anything to be grateful for … keep looking. There’s always something!
4. Exercise
Just going for a simple walk creates enough movement in your body enough to get the endorphins flowing. Endorphins, hormones that trigger a positive feeling in the body, are well-known mood enhancers.
So get moving to alleviate stress!
5. Socialise
Chatting with others is a great way to alleviate stress … as long as it’s with the people you enjoy. Sharing your own problems and hearing those of others, often helps put things into perspective.
Just pick up the phone and arrange a get together.
If you are feeling isolated, look for clubs, groups or events in your local area and join. People are usually very welcoming, It just takes that first step.
6. Treat yourself
Do something nice for yourself every day. It could be as simple as taking an afternoon nap, taking 5 minutes to enjoy a coffee and piece of cake, having a hot soak with scented candles, going to the theatre, reading a good book … or having a beauty treatment. A relaxing massage with essential oils?
A small treat every day does wonders for your spirit.
7. Smile
Do you smile enough? Or do you walk around with your face and shoulders down-turned as you’re carrying the weight of the world?
Stand tall, put your shoulders back and smile. Smile when you’re going about your everyday life. Smile at others … they may smile back!
Your emotions follow what your body is doing. So when you put on a smile, you actually start to feel happier and less stressed.
Even better … laugh! As often as possible.
Try it. You may be surprised.
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Here at Aesthetics Julie Edwards, we offer the latest Aesthetics and Advanced Beauty Treatments to help you relax and slow down. Contact Aesthetics Julie Edwards if you’d like more information.