Take Time Out To De-Stress

It’s no secret; stress unfortunately catches up with all of us at one time or another. In honor of National Stress Awareness Month, and because the challenges caused by the global pandemic continue to raise our stress levels, I wanted to share some of my go-to tips for easing and diminishing anxiety. I find these ideas help best when I work them into my daily routine, rather than waiting for stress to build up so much that I feel the urge to runaway from it all for a few hours.

Remember To Breathe
Most of us don’t realize it, but when we feel anxious or stressed we tend to tighten our muscles and breathe rapidly and shallowly. Remember to consciously stop and take a few long, deep breaths—they can trigger the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to regulate breathing, blood flow, heart rate, and even digestion. Periodic stretching throughout the day can also literally get the kinks out and ease muscle tension.

Make Regular Exercise A Habit
Consistent exercise is a really great way to keep stress at bay. It can do wonders for your mental outlook, as well as make you feel good about body. The best exercises are the ones you love to do, so choose your favorite—whether it’s running, lifting weights, or yoga—and schedule it on your calendar.

Pick Up A Hobby
Having a hobby, whether it’s photography, painting, or simply doing crossword puzzles, is a healthy way to tune-out from the responsibilities of life that might be weighing you down and enable you to immerse yourself in doing something you love. Spending time using the creative side of your brain can also give you a fresh perspective when you return your attention to the pressing matters in your life.

Schedule Me-Time
One of the best ways I ease my own anxiety is to schedule “me-time” appointments on my calendar. Whether it’s taking a long soak with our Bergamot & Grapefruit with CBD oil Bath Bomb or doing an online yoga class from my living room, just knowing there is dedicated time in my day to practice self-care takes the edge off most things that might be worrying me.

Try Teletherapy Services
When life feels so heavy that you can’t see your way forward, it’s best to enlist the help of a professional therapist. One of the good things that came out of the pandemic is that most therapists started offering FaceTime or online Zoom sessions. In some ways, having a therapy session from your own home can feel even more comforting.

Sage xo