10 Brilliantly Effective Ways to Reduce Stress

Stress. It happens to the best of us. Even the most carefree person can feel it start to creep up from time to time. The trick, then, is finding ways to reduce stress and get back to living life. We feel stressed from pressure at work, having too many commitments, relationship problems, family drama, traffic jams, schoolwork, bills... should I go on? It's easy to get caught up in today's fast-paced world and cave under pressure. Things can feel a little too overwhelming sometimes, and it can cause us to feel like we might not be able to handle everything that's going on around us. We become fidgety, anxious, emotional and sleep deprived, all thanks to stress. If you get stressed out easily, try these 10 ways to unwind and help lift that proverbial weight off your shoulders.

10 Tips to Reduce Stress

1. Eat Your Favorite Food

Eating food that you love can release endorphins to make you happy and can work as an antidote to stress. Food that contains Omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, is great for your nerves. Be careful not to stress-eat. Enjoy your favorite meal but don't go overboard to make yourself feel worse. Here's a list of foods to help reduce stress.

2. Try Aromatherapy

Certain smells can have a great impact on your emotions. Keep a scent with you that makes you happy, and pull it out whenever you need to brighten your mood. These nine natural aromas can work to boost your mood.

3. Treat Yourself to a Massage

Take some time to yourself to relax. If you want to save money from a trip to the spa, massage the area between your eyebrows, under your lower lip and the center of your palms. These spots will help with relaxation. Check out these other pressure points that help to reduce stress.

4. Rub Your Hands Together

This might sound odd, but it's effective. Take a break from a stressful situation by rubbing your hands together, and then, rubbing your palms with your thumb, applying pressure. You can also massage your forehead and scalp in a small, circular motion to help you concentrate on what you're doing.

5. Wash It Off

Taking a shower can work wonders for your stress level, and it can even improve your mood. If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a hot shower and allow the water to massage your head and shoulders. The water will feel soothing and the smell of soaps and shampoos can aid in relaxation.

6. Clean Up

Putting things where they go can help you put your thoughts in order. Clean up your home or office and make sure everything is in its place. Your mind can convert the neat order of your environment into a degree of organization in your own thoughts, calming your mind.

7. Paint a Picture

Some studies have shown that painting or coloring for just a few minutes during a time of stress can take your mind off of what's stressing you out, and creativity can act as an outlet for stress.

8. Wave Your Arms Around

Stress can often make your body clench up, tensing shoulder, neck and back muscles. This can lead to headaches and back pain. Moving your arms around in circles and bending your legs can help relax your muscles quickly, without having to hit the gym.

9. Drink Tea With Hibiscus

Hibiscus can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and panic, without slowing you down or causing any other side effects. Hibiscus contains antioxidants, Vitamin C, and has many other health benefits.

10. Dance

If you're feeling stressed, the last thing you probably want to do is get up and dance, but studies have shown that music and rhythmic movements can help to reduce stress. Plus, a dance party is always a good idea. h/t: brightside