None of us are strangers to stress! I mean, let’s face it, there isn’t a day that goes by, especially in your 20’s, when you don’t experience a little bit of stress. 🙃And I know that I have talked about ways to decrease your stress and anxiety levels in many past posts. However, today I wanted to give you my favorite tips for decreasing stress in the moment and my favorite ways to show yourself a little bit of love when you need it! For those days when life gets crazy and hectic, and when you could use a little bit of “you time” as simply and as quickly as possible. So with that, these are my top 5 healthy ways to immediately reduce stress and add some happiness into your day!
1. Tidy up/ organize your space
I don’t know what it is about cleaning or organizing my space around me, but it seriously makes me feel 10x less stressed almost immediately. Something about cleaning up a mess or organizing something as simple as my desk drawer alleviates a lot of anxiety and stress. Especially when I am feeling overwhelmed or not in control of my situations. Maybe it’s the OCD in me? 🙃
But, definitely try this one out the next time you need some immediate stress relief! It doesn’t have to take up a lot of your time either. Simply pick the clothes up off of your floor, do the dishes, vacuum, make your bed, etc. I promise you, your mood will change for the better almost instantly! It allows you to escape from any worries or stressors at the moment, breath, enjoy your space, and be able to work in a tidier, more organized environment.
2. Take a quick walk
I know this sounds so simple, but taking 15-minutes out of your day to get outside and go for a walk is honestly one of the best ways to immediately reduce stress! Not to mention, exercise is also an excellent way to clear your mind, improve your mood, and de-stress. And walking is great form of exercise! Walking also allows you to step away and remove yourself from your stressful situation, change your surroundings, and give yourself a much needed mental break. And what’s more calming than the peaceful sounds of nature, am I right?
3. Dive into some form of self-care
This can be anything that you, personally, love to do! If exercise is one of your favorite ways to invest in you, then definitely make time each day to just that. Do some yoga, take time to stretch each morning, go to the gym after work, or dance it out! Take 5-10 minutes when you are stressed to take a break and move your body. Or, you can try other forms of self-care. Put a face mask on, take a bath, bake a healthy treat that will nourish your body, take a nap, go for a drive, by yourself some flowers, etc. But, take a moment each day to invest in yourself! It is so important to take time to slow down, take a breath, and relax for your overall health and well-being.
It doesn’t have to be for an hour or take up a huge part of your day, just make sure you are spending at least 10 minutes each day diving into some form of self-care that makes you feel happy and healthy!
4. Have your “de-stress duo”
Pick out your favorite tea, coffee, or any hot drink and your favorite healthy snack that you want to have on-hand when you’re stressed or overwhelmed. This is going to be your “de-stress duo!” This little treat and hot drink are going to be whatever is tasty and satisfying to you, and what ultimately makes you feel better.
For me, I have been loving the Trader Joe’s Sweet Potato Chips, along with a side of guacamole if I am wanting a savory/salty snack. But, if I am craving something sweet, I have also been loving oatmeal. It’s perfect for a quick and easy, sweet and healthy treat. I love mixing organic almond butter in my oatmeal as well as topping it with cinnamon. Lately, my favorite brand of oatmeal is definitely MYLK labs! They are made with all clean, organic ingredients, and they are easy to take with you on-the-go! If you try any of their delicious flavors (my favorite is currently chocolate hazelnut!) be sure to use the code cydneymarlene10 to save 10% off your entire order! 😘
And believe it or not, both of these snacks are also foods that help ease stress and anxiety! How perfect is that! Lastly, for my go-to cup of tea, I have currently been loving green tea with lemon!
5. Try aromatherapy
You’d be surprised at how quick soothing and relaxing scents can help to reduce stress. Whether you light one of your favorite scented candles or diffuse some essential oils, aromatherapy is essential for alleviating stress in the moment. For me, I love to light a candle every single time I work or when I am cleaning!
Something about it just makes the environment so much more peaceful and cozy. Another great tip is to keep essential oils in your purse, work desk, or in your car. That way the soothing scents are with you at all times whenever you may possibly need them!
Let me know what you think of these 5 tips!
What are some of your favorite healthy ways to immediately reduce stress?
xo, Cydney
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