Simple
Ways to Reduce Stress
Motherhood and multi-tasking are more
or less synonymous, and this can result in overloading
and stress, both at home and at work. But there are
easy ways to lighten the stress load for even the busiest
moms. Incorporate these simple methods in your day-to-day
life to help reduce stress, and soon you’ll be
breathing easier inside and out!
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Stress Reduction at Work and Home
If your job keeps you behind a desk, stand up and stretch
at regular intervals during the day to ease tension
that builds up from lack of movement. If you’re
on your feet at work, find time to sit down and be sure
to do ankle and calf stretches throughout the day. When
it’s time to take a break, make sure to leave
your desk or work station; a quick getaway, even if
it’s just for a few minutes, can be a real stress
reliever. Simple exercises that you can do at your desk
or anywhere at home – deep breathing, neck and
shoulder rolls, for example – are also good for
reducing stress. And whether you’re at work or
at home, look at your “to do” list, pick
the most disagreeable item, and do it first thing. This
might not seem like the best way to start your day,
but once the task is out of the way it won’t be
a stress-inducing reminder hanging over your head.
Relieve Stress Naturally
Set aside a few minutes each morning to clear your
mind with meditation, yoga or breathing exercises. If
you can wake up a little while before everyone else
in the house, this time is perfect for quiet reflection.
This can help put you in a relaxed state of mind to
start the day, so you’ll be better prepared to
deal with stressful situations that might occur later.
Exercise is also a natural stress reducer, whether it’s
at the gym or with equipment and DVDs you’ve got
at home. If you can’t fit a regular workout into
your daily schedule, go outside for a walk. A half hour
walk every day is an easy and natural way to reduce
stress (and it’s a natural weight loss aid too).
Take the kids with you if you’re a stay-at-home
mom, or leave them with a neighbor or sitter for some
well-earned alone time. It’s a healthy break from
your routine, and the fresh air and outdoor view is
a terrific stress buster. Listening to music can also
reduce stress. Instrumentals or jazz can be very calming
– or rocking out to your favorite rock band could
do the trick to cheer you up or be a nice distraction
from whatever might be stressing you out.
Dietary Ways to Reduce Stress
Healthy eating habits can also play an important role
in stress reduction. Overeating, in addition to not
being good for how you look or feel about yourself,
can cause sluggishness and irritability, which make
you more susceptible to stress. Pay attention to the
amount of sugar, caffeine and alcohol in your diet;
cutting down on these is a good health choice and may
also play a role in stress relief. Replace your afternoon
coffee with a cup of herbal tea. Drink water throughout
the day – dehydration can make you tired and grumpy
and more likely to tense up. Taking daily vitamin and
mineral supplements can help get your body and mind
in healthy balance. Calcium, which is found in dairy
products and can also be taken as a supplement, is essential
for women’s bone health, and it can be beneficial
for calming your nerves as well.
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