Life can be overwhelming, and if you don’t take care of yourself, you might find yourself bogged down by too much stress. Take note of these nine habits of people who don’t stress — you might even want to try them yourself!
1. They get sufficient sleep.
The American Psychology Association (APA) says that “even slight sleep deprivation or poor sleep can affect memory, judgment, and mood,” among many health implications. If you have trouble sleeping, try habits like going to bed and waking up at the same time every day and reading a bit before sleeping.
2. They practice deep breathing.
Harvard Health Publishing writes that deep breathing can help you disconnect yourself from distracting thoughts and sensations and relax your body.
3. They practice mindfulness.
Practicing mindfulness can help you slow down the thoughts that might be triggering your stress and focus on the present. “When you remind yourself to pay attention to the present, you are much less likely to be carried away by overwhelming feelings of stress, anxiety, and worry that are future-oriented,” psychotherapist Kristen Martinez tells Bustle.
4. They exercise regularly.
Exercise has been known to relieve stress and improve a person’s mood. Dr. Kathy Gruver, Ph.D. tells Bustle, “Exercise helps produce feel-good hormones in the brain. Regular exercise is a great way to help manage stress.”
5. They go outside.
Just like kids, grown-ups would do well to spend some time outdoors! Bustle says that according to research from Stanford University, taking a short nature walk can reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing. RealSimple also says that natural light has been found to improve mood.
6. They leave work at work.
According to a 2011 study, though it can be hard to mentally distance yourself from work because of cellphones and email, “psychological detachment from work during nonwork time is important for employee recovery and health.” You might just find yourself more relaxed when you establish a line between work and personal life.
7. They read.
RealSimple writes that according to a University of Sussex study, just six minutes of reading can reduce stress by as much as 68 percent. Next time you feel a bit overwhelmed, maybe try curling up with a good book!
8. They spend time with friends.
It’s hard to maintain friendships as adults, and especially as moms, but having other women who support you is one way you can relieve stress. Dr. Gruver says, “Studies show that human connection and interaction tend to decrease the stress response. It also allows us to lean on others in times we need extra support.”
9. They spend time alone.
Make sure you get to be by yourself sometimes. Pediatrician Dr. Meg Meeker says on her blog that mothers need solitude because it removes them from stimulation and noise, sharpens their sensitivity, and helps them learn to enjoy the present more. Being alone can refresh you in ways that being with others cannot.
*This story originally appeared on Smartparenting.com.ph. Minor edits have been made by the Preview.ph editors.
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