RazzWorks

We all get stressed out sometimes. Life can be hectic and problems arise but how do you handle it when you feel stressed. Self-care is essential in dealing with stress. Try a few of these tips to help you find your happy place again.

Eat healthy food

Processed and junk food can leave you feeling sluggish and tired. Other culprits that can ruin your good mood are sugar and caffeine. Cut back on these and try eating more healthy, mood-lifting foods like blueberries, avocados, salmon, and turkey.

Sleep

6-8 hrs. is required for most people. If you have trouble sleeping try listening to some soothing nature sounds, have a cup of herbal tea, and put on your favorite cozy pajamas. Let the cares of the day go and focus on all the things you are grateful for in your life. Don’t forget to limit caffeine before bed and shut off electronics at least half an hour before bed. Developing a good bedtime routine will give your body the signals it needs so it will know it’s time to go to sleep.

Exercise

Do whatever kind of exercise you want but get up and move. Exercise causes our brain to produce feel-good chemicals so even a walk in the park or some light stretches at home will make you feel better. Getting outside in the sunshine is best though since you’ll also get some vitamin D. Exercising every day has the added benefit of helping you sleep better.

Spend time with a pet

Cats and dogs are great stress-busters. Playing with them will make both of you happier or even just snuggling up with them on the couch to watch a movie. I know when I lay there and just pet my cat, listening to her loud, rumbling purr, I always feel very peaceful. Our pets love us unconditionally so become an important part of our support system.

Time for yourself

While it may seem cliché, a nice hot bubble bath will do you wonders. Anything you enjoy doing by yourself is good though. Try journaling, reading, going for a walk, or slowly sipping a nice hot cup of herbal tea. The point is to have good quality ‘me time’. Don’t take your phone with you either. It can often be the source of more stress.

Create Something

This should be easy especially if you like doing crafts or baking/cooking. If you aren’t very crafty look up some simple ideas on Pinterest. Origami is easy and very relaxing to do or just make a paper airplane and fly it. You could also make something with clay or wood, or write a poem or short story. Everyone can create something. Just remember it’s not about the finished product, it’s about the process. Have fun creating and don’t be too critical of the outcome.

Celebrate a small achievement

What have you done recently? It doesn’t have to be something significant. Maybe you got up and got dressed today, or finally called your mother. Have you eaten a healthy meal lately? Celebrate! The idea is to recognize that you have done something even if it was only to make someone smile.

Support system

It’s important for your mental health to have a support system. This could be your best friend, your mom or dad, a therapist, or even an online support group. Having someone you trust to talk to is crucial. Even our pets are a big part of our mental health support system.

There are many more things you can do to help you de-stress but this list should help. Basically, you need to take care of yourself and spend some time prioritizing your physical and mental health. I hope you found something here that you can use the next time you’re feeling stressed. What are some other things you do to de-stress?

Roze