7 Tips to Reduce Stress 

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Stress, unfortunately, is part of life. We wouldn’t be human if we didn’t have stress in our lives. Stress can come from home, family, work, school, friends, relationships, etc.

Particular parts of our life, perhaps a big presentation to a boss each month, can be considered a stressor. How we handle stressors in our lives is crucial.

If we let stress build up in our bodies without taking the time to process it or let it out in some way, it can be detrimental to our health.

Think of your stress building in your body like a Coca Cola can. If you shake it (add on stress), the pressure builds inside and when you go to open it, it explodes (you snap).

Read on for tips to reduce stress

1) Exercise- It doesn’t matter how you exercise. Go for a run, practice yoga, do a home workout, do whatever works for you. If you choose yoga, Yoga with Adriene is one of my favorites on YouTube.

2) Try essential oils- Different scents do different things. Lavender is calming while Peppermint can help to clear your mind. This is the diffuser I use in my office and at home. 

3) Journaling- It can feel odd at first and perhaps childish to write your thoughts down. This is hardly a “dear diary” moment. You have a lot going on in your life and it may help to process it by writing it all down. Some people benefit from making bullet points while others scribble on the page to express certain emotions.

4) Spend time with friends/family- There is something about spending time with those we care about venting about our week. Sometimes our favorite people are far away. Technology allows us to use various apps to communicate and still spend quality time together.

5) Laugh- Whether you watch videos on YouTube, pull a silly prank on a friend, or go to a comedy show, find time to laugh!

6) Saying NO- this may be harder for some than others. How we choose to spend our time can add up quickly during your week. Do you really need to go to another friend’s child’s birthday party? Or could you benefit from some self care time?

7) Avoid procrastination- Some of us are planners, make lists, and enjoy hitting deadlines early. Others may do well under pressure and procrastinate tasks. If you fall into the latter, try to take small steps toward breaking big tasks into smaller more manageable chunks.

Bonus Tip

Talk to a therapist. Give it a chance, there’s less stigma now 😉 Where else could you find someone that will be un-biased and listen to your entire story? They’ll help you process hard parts of life, build coping skills, and help you better yourself.

Did I miss any of your favorite stress reduction tips? Let me know!

Bonus Goodie! I’ve got a discount code for $5 off the Anti Anxiety Notebook. Use code rbcounseling5.  This notebook keeps me sane with my busy schedule. The notebook has prompts to break down describe the situation you’re in, describe your thoughts, note the intensity, identify thought patterns, challenge your unhelpful thinking, and gives you room to do some extra journaling. It prompts you every step of the way. Obviously, I’m loving it. Check it out for yourself here. 

To discuss how therapy could help you during this season of your life, please contact me or schedule your free 15 minute consultation.

You have already taken the first step in seeking help and I can’t wait to help you achieve your goals!

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