Healthy Habits to Reduce Stress

Ever felt like you don’t have the time to eat, exercise, or interact with friends and family? Have deadlines and responsibilities chained you down in more ways than one? Do you spend most of your time at work with little activity? Are all these situations creating a stressful environment and draining your energy and mental health?

If your answer to the above was a yes, it is time you addressed these issues. Coping with expectations at work and at home can be taxing. While these are important, remember that nothing is worth sacrificing your health.

The simplest way to reduce stress is to keep your mind at ease and your body healthy with simple lifestyle changes and time management. Letting go of bad habits and introducing a few healthy tweaks can help you rekindle your relationship with your mind and body!

Here are a few changes you can make to reduce stress:

• Start Your Day with Breathing Exercises or Meditation: Practicing different forms of Pranayama or  basic stretches can reduce stress and keep you energized throughout the day.
• Plan Your Tasks: Spend some time planning your day to stay organized and avoid last-minute rushes that could lead to stress.
• Limit Gadget Use: Use gadgets only for work or as and when necessary. Overindulgence in gadgets can lead to depression and cut you off from the real world. Set specific times for usage and avoid them at least an hour or two before sleep.
• Set Alarms for Water Intake: Dehydration can affect cortisol levels, a stress hormone that impacts both mind and body. Staying hydrated can help reduce stress.
• Walk Whenever Possible: If your workplace is within walking distance, opt to walk or cycle instead of driving. Walking releases endorphins, elevates your mood, and improves heart rate. Choose stairs over escalators or elevators as it is the best and easiest form of exercise!
• Take Breaks: Spend time with family, friends and loved ones. A healthy social life fosters deeper connections and make life more meaningful.
• Plan a Trip or Vacation: Whether with others or solo, a change in environment can boost creativity, positivity, and help you exchange new thoughts and ideas.
• Eat Fruits Daily: Different fruits provide various nutrients that help reduce stress. For example, Bananas have Tryptophan, Avocados have Vitamin B, Sweet Potatoes have Potassium and Magnesium, all of which help lower stress levels.
• Indulge in Hobbies: No matter how busy you are, hobbies help you relax. Whether it’s a sport, music, traveling, or painting, setting time aside for your passions will enrich your life.

Remember the old saying, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”? It’s true! Take time for yourself. If you’re only working and not playing, are you really living? Your work targets can be achieved, and your relationships with friends and family can be sustained—but only if you prioritize your health. Make your physical and mental well-being a priority!

Want to learn more about managing stress? Check out Healthy Reads or ask a GOQii Coach by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

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