10 TIPS TO HELP REDUCE STRESS AND RELAX

Being calm and relaxed is one of the most important parts of our lives. It enables us to think clearly, make decisions more quickly, and most importantly being calm has a huge impact on the people around you.

We all lead very busy lives, and as great as it is to whisk yourself off to a spa to have some downtime, this obviously can't be done all of the time. It would cost a fortune for a start! Here are my top 10 tips to help you relax, and reduce stress on a daily basis.

1. Meditate

Just a few minutes of meditation every day can help to relieve stress and anxiety. Even if it for just a few minutes during a busy day at work, simply find a quiet place and sit down with both your feet on the floor. Relax all of your muscles, and take deep breaths... In for 4... Hold for 7... Out for 8. You may even want to recite some positive affirmations in your head for example "I am relaxed" or "I feel at peace".

2. Get Active

Yes, this may sound counter-intuitive to number one, however keeping yourself active is one of the best things you can do if you are feeling stressed. Many people when they take time out tend to flop themselves onto the sofa and watch TV, however if you go for a jog or to the gym this will create endorphins which help to lower anxiety and increase mental wellbeing.

3. Tune into your body

Similar to meditation, this is a fantastic way to go into deep relaxation. Simply lie down on the floor in a completely silent room, and focus on relaxing all of the muscles in your body starting with your toes and slowly working your way up through every muscle until you reach your head. You will immediately feel far more relaxed, and ready to focus on the rest of the day.

4. Hug Someone

We all love a hug, don't we! But this simple act is one of the best ways of relieving stress, as it increases levels of the "love hormone" oxytocin, whilst at the same time reducing the stress hormone cortisol. It doesn't have to be a human either, so grab your pet and give them a cuddle! You will BOTH feel better for it. :)

5. Be Grateful

Keep a journal or notepad near you at all times. Write down everything in your life that makes you happy, when something good happens to you, or someone pays you a compliment. Then if you are ever feeling a bit low, simply open up your "Positivity Book" and take some time to remember what is important to you in your life.

6. Aromatherapy

Get those senses going by burning some essential oils, to make you feel calm and relaxed. Some of the best essential oils you can use for this are Chamomile, Lavender, Ylang Ylang and Neroli. You may wish to use a candle burner, but a good steam diffuser is safer and the fragrance is more instant.

7. Soak Up Some Rays

Easier said than done if you live in the UK, but even in the most moderate of temperatures, the sun provides us with Vitamin D which increases serotonin in the body. This is one of the reasons why we all flock to sunny destinations on holiday every year! But remember to always wear suitable sunscreen depending on the climate you are in.

8. Hand Massage

It is very well known that massage is one of the best ways to relieve stress, but just giving yourself a simple hand massage can really help. Take your favourite cream and massage it into your palms, then work up each of your fingers and gently rub each of your joints. When you have finished you may want to apply an aromatherapy cream to your wrist pulse points, and I have a selection of these available in my shop.

9. Have a Cuppa

No... Not a normal cuppa, something herbal. Chamomile tea has a huge amount of benefits but is most well known for its relaxing powers. It is also great for reducing menstrual pain, mild inflammation and even a sniffly nose!

10. take a walk

Not only does walking help to keep your heart in good shape, but it also is incredibly relaxing. Find a nice spot near you, and go for a walk whilst taking in the scenery. If you have some relaxing music or meditation MP3's then get them on whilst you are out and this will help you to clear your mind.

I hope that some of these were able to help, and if you have enjoyed reading this then please share it with your loved ones!!

Love and Light,

Linda

xxx

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