Whether it's work, school, or our personal lives: it's inevitable that you'll feel stressed or anxious at one point or another. Thankfully, there's some ways to cope when things get tough. Here are 4 tips to help reduce stress and worry!
1. Share how you feel
This is an important step, and probably one that is hardest to do. If you’re feeling stressed or worried about something, confide in someone. You’ll feel better when you’ve been able to vent. It also can help you knowing that someone knows what you’re going through. Don’t be afraid to talk!
2. Set aside time to worry
Setting aside time each day to worry could help you worry less in the long run. Eventually, the thoughts will dwindle and you’ll find you feel so much better. If you’re worried about something in the morning and have your worry period scheduled for that evening, then that morning worry will probably not seem so significant at 7pm.
3. Meditation
Be mindful of your thoughts and actions. Meditation is a great tool that has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote better sleep. You’ll have to stay in the moment and shut the world out, which is a way to potentially get your mind to focus on something other than your own struggles.
4. Exercise
When you’re stressed, use physical exercise to help break down excessive stress hormones. You'll feel happier and even calmer afterwards! Plus, a nice hard workout will also improve how you sleep. Win/win!
It’s important to listen to your body and take note of what it is trying to tell you. Seek help when you need it, rest when your body asks for it, and try to calm your mind with meditation or exercise. Once you know what tips work for you, practice them and your mind and body will thank you in no time.