Ways to De-Stress!

Life is mixture of work and play, and if you're like most people, that line can blur. Work seems to run over into pleasure time, and often people find that family and personal tasks can completely consume any leisure time they have. Even vacations can turn into extra work when you're fussing over itineraries and keeping track of children and spouses. The key to de-stressing is finding moments in each day to completely let go and allow the stress to drain away. Obligations will never simply disappear, but you can certainly forget about them for awhile without feeling guilty.

1. Walk

Set aside a half hour each day (or 15 or 20 minutes if you're especially pressed for time) to simply take a walk. Get up early and appreciate the early morning air, or take a quick jaunt downtown on your break. You might feel like you have to force yourself at first, but after a few minutes your head will clear and your body will feel a little more refreshed. Going for a walk will not only get your blood pumping and loosen up muscles, thus allowing physical signs of stress to drain away, it will give you some time to think. The key to walking is to allow your mind to wander; make a pact with yourself to keep your brain clear of any upcoming tasks or worries while you walk. Instead, think about your surroundings or simply daydream. Allowing your brain to wander and relax is not only healthy, but it can be productive too. Most people will continue to subconsciously work out problems or ideas in their brains while thinking about other things. Giving your brain a break could give you your big break, so don't be afraid to blank out for a bit and enjoy the fresh air.

2. Write

No need to a keep a diary or anything, but it can be helpful to jot down your thoughts and feelings every once in awhile. Putting your thoughts down on papers purges them from your mind and allows you to organize all the scraps of reason flying about in your head. It can be comforting and productive to put worries into words or make ideas concrete. Writing also helps you think better by focusing and engaging the mind.

3. Talk

Make it a point to meet with a friend or two at least once a week for a quick coffee or a meal. People often get so caught up in work and family that they go weeks without meeting friends, and an hour long chat with a buddy can do wonders for your stress level. By sitting down, partaking in some refreshment, and simply talking it out or reminiscing, you allow yourself to unwind and take comfort in the presence of a friend.

4. Treat Yourself

Whenever you get the chance, give yourself a little reward for your hard work. Don't go overboard, but don't be afraid to get a manicure now and then, buy that new book, or take an afternoon off to go on a hike or swim. You only get one life, and it would be a shame to waste it mired down in deadlines and appointments. There's no harm in allowing yourself a little breather when you need it, and your body and mind will thank you for it.

5. Appreciate The Little Things

It may sound trite, but sometimes people get so caught up in life that they fail to see its beauty. Instead of stressing over your next deadline, bask in your last accomplishment. Know that you did well, and take confidence in your abilities rather than worrying about whether you'll match up next time. Rushing children from place to place can be hectic, but try to soak in some of their energy and enthusiasm for once. Help them with an art project and revisit your artistic side or play some catch. Or, you can simply get up early to take in a sunrise or head to the beach to watch the waves. Being able to appreciate such seemingly trivial things allows you to put heavier matters in perspective. What's one missed call when compared to your daughter's first recital or a gorgeous sunset?

6. Take Opportunities

In life we are often given many opportunities to do new or unique things, like see an art show or catch a new play. Perhaps you're invited to a special dinner or a big sporting event is coming to town. Since many of these things are unique, you don't know what you're missing, and might easily write off such an event because of other things. However, some of the best experiences come from new or spur of the moment events. Don't be afraid to try something new; that encounter could be a major stress reliever, or could open up a new window that you'd never considered before.

Stress is part of everyone's life, and knowing how to manage it can do wonders for your lifestyle. Taking a few small steps and allowing yourself to live, breathe, and appreciate life can tone down the stress and even make those stress-inducers much more bearable.