We've previously discussed the negative impact of stress on weight loss . But how do you reduce stress? What helps you relax? These tips can help you.
It sounds so simple: just relax for a moment! But nothing can be as difficult as relaxing when you're under stress.
Types of stress
There are different types of stress, ranging from 'harmless' forms like holiday stress and positive stress to chronic, negative stress and burnout. Not all types of stress can be prevented or cured with the tips below. If you are experiencing significant stress, it is always advisable to make an appointment with your doctor. However, it certainly won't hurt to try these tips.
Tip 1: Write it down
Tomorrow's grocery shopping, confirming that appointment, replying to that email... All those things that keep running through your head... Write them down! Putting them on paper takes them out of your head. And that's a relief. Plus, making a list gives you a visual overview. And you might even realize that what you had to do/arrange/buy wasn't so bad after all.
Tip 2: Get (more) active
Whether you do yoga, boot camp, (hard) running or cycling - exercise helps against stress. With every drop of sweat, you create more space in your head, which leads to more calm. If you exercise outdoors, you double the effect. Fresh air also works wonders for your mood. READ ALSO: Tips to subtly move more.
Tip 3: Do nothing
Give yourself some time to catch your breath by doing absolutely nothing. Schedule a day off from work and just relax on the couch. And don't do the laundry; this day is truly meant for doing absolutely nothing. Sometimes, just the idea of such a "time-out" is enough to lower your stress level.
Tip 4: Meditate
By meditating occasionally, you incorporate extra moments of calm into your daily life. These actually have a preventative effect on stress: by stepping away from the hustle and bustle (in your mind) from time to time, you can often keep stress at bay, even during particularly busy periods.
Tip 5: Listen to music
Research shows that the right music can help you relax. The endorphins released when listening to music give you a good feeling. Furthermore, it helps distract your thoughts, leading to relaxation, lower blood pressure, and calmer breathing. Note: this refers to calm music. Nirvana won't instantly put you in zen mode. Do you already follow NewFysic on Facebook and Instagram ? This article was written by Bart (37). Bart is a health expert in a village in the east of the country. He strongly believes that a healthy lifestyle contributes positively to a healthy weight and an energetic life. He also doesn't shy away from (a pragmatic view of) spirituality. He regularly provides us with new insights that he also incorporates into his daily life with his young family. Photo: Ben White via Unsplash
