Quick Tips for Reducing Stress in Daily Life

• Practice Deep Breathing:

• Melt the belly and shoulders- opens the diaphragm.

• Deep breaths help calm your nervous system.

• Benefits: Instant relaxation and improved focus.

• Move Your Body:

• Physical activity releases endorphins (feel-good chemicals), reducing stress.

• Benefits: Improved mood and reduced tension.

• Prioritize Sleep:

• Quality sleep is essential for stress recovery.

• Benefits: Increased energy and enhanced resilience.

• Reduce as much light and inconsistent sound as possible. It disrupts deep sleep.

• Consider sound machine, white noise or brown noise to drown out sounds.

• Make sure your body temperature is very comfortable. Get a fan or blanket. The less your body has to work to regulate, the better.

• Go on a technology diet at least 1-2 hrs before bed routine.

• Have consistent bedtimes.

• Get out of bed at the first alarm. Consider getting sunlight at this time.

• Mindfulness Meditation:

• Mindfulness reduces anxiety and promotes well-being.

• Benefits: Greater emotional control and reduced stress.

• Limit Caffeine Intake:

• High caffeine can trigger or exacerbate stress.

• Benefits: Reduced jitters, better sleep.

• Limit Alcohol Consumption:

• Alcohol can worsen anxiety and stress reactions.

• Benefits: Improved mental clarity and better mood.

• Prevents deeper sleep and can cause restlessness and early awakening after initially falling asleep. 

• Be Cautious with Marijuana Use:

• Marijuana can increase anxiety afterward.

• Limit news and drama entertainment consumption.