Simple ways to reduce your daily stress

Circle of Wellness
Emotional

Stress has become an inevitable part of life for many, causing health related problems. The human body is designed to experience stress and react to it. Stress can be positive, keeping us alert and ready to avoid danger. Stress becomes negative when a person faces continuous challenges without relief or relaxation between challenges.

In such situations, the person becomes overworked, and stress-related tension builds. This can lead to headaches, chest pain, high blood pressure, overeating, depression, mood swings, and much more.

Although many individuals are aware of the health problems associated with stress, they are also aware that their stressful life will continue. In order to keep up with stressful lifestyles one should do simple exercises daily to reduce their stress levels.

When we physically exert ourselves, our bodies release endorphins, a natural "feel-good" substance. When it comes to combating stress, every bit of exercise counts. Listed below are a few suggestions for incorporating exercise into your routine and relieving stress.

Aerobic activity

Research states that exercise, especially aerobic exercise, has consistently been shown to be effective in helping individuals manage psychological stress.

• Walking - Just 20 minutes of brisk walking can provide stress relief and improve overall health. Consider walking with a colleague; this is a great way to unwind after a busy day at school.

• Aerobic classes - Some people need the stimulation that an aerobic class has to offer: music, people, bright lights, etc. If this sounds like you, consider signing up for an aerobics class at your local gym.

• Biking or running - Now that the longer days are here, you and your colleagues can take long bike rides or short jogs after work or school.

• Dancing classes - Dancing has become the hot new trend in exercise for both stress relief and weight loss. If you don’t have time to go to a class, just turn on that stereo at home and have a blast. Dancing brings an overall feeling of joy, happiness and emotional well-being.

Household chores

Many outdoor chores can increase your heart rate and help with the release of endorphins. Rigorous outdoor activity can burn just as many calories as a rigorous workout at the gym.

• Gardening - Carrying bags of soil, planting, weeding and watering can increase your heart rate. In addition, exposure to daylight can also have positive effect on your mood.

• Lawn mowing - Using a push lawn mower can give you a moderate work-out, especially if you have a large yard to mow!

• Washing cars - Skip the car wash and try the old-fashioned, hand-and-sponge method. All the scrubbing and trips around the car with the hose will provide you with some beneficial exercise.

Yoga

The stretching and strength exercises in a yoga class can help one relieve stress. Certain styles provide a good cardiovascular workout as well. Find the yoga class that best suits your needs, and use the poses and breathing techniques daily to promote good overall heath. Remember, just 20 minutes of exercise a day can greatly reduce your stress!