6 Anti-Stress Techniques That Work

We cannot hide from stress - we stress and worry about jobs, money, relationships, health, or parents - but that doesn't mean we should ignore it and pretend it doesn't exist. Too much stress left "untreated", left in control of our lives, can cause quite serious health problems, both physically and mentally.

That's why today I thought I'd introduce you to some anti-stress techniques that work and that will help you, at least for a short time, get rid of worries and thoughts that don't give you peace.

This is good news: in many cases, stress is "controllable." With a little patience and a few helpful strategies, you can reduce the stress in your life, whether it's family or work.

Draw and color

Surely you have seen in bookstores that there is a wide range of coloring books for adults, with various patterns, geometric figures, plants, flowers, mandalas, and much more.

The first step is to choose such a book, it does not have to be very expensive, especially since there are more accessible options. Then buy a box of colored pencils and, when you feel stressed, start coloring or drawing as you like.

Write in a diary

Another way you can deal with stress is to write down in your diary or notebook the things that don't give you peace of mind. As you write down the situation you are stressed about (this is one of the approaches to the journal method), another approach is to write down or point out the things you are grateful for.

Gratitude can help you get rid of stress and anxiety by focusing your thoughts on what is positive in your life right now. It is good to keep such a diary, say psychologists, especially if you focus on the positive aspects.

Learn to say no

Not all sources of stress can be in your control, but you can control some of them. For example, take control of the parts of your life that you can change and that cause you stress.

One way you can do this is to learn to say "no" more often. This rule is especially valid if you find that you have accepted more tasks than you can handle when you feel that you are juggling too many responsibilities and you already feel overwhelmed by everything.

Take part in a yoga class

Yoga has become a popular way to relieve stress and get more exercise. Although there are different styles of yoga, most share a common goal: the union of body and mind. Research has found that yoga stimulates mood and can be as effective as antidepressants in treating depression and anxiety.

Call a friend

When you feel stressed, take a break to call a friend and talk about your problems. Sometimes it works even if you call your mother, especially if you have a very close relationship with her.

Good relationships with friends and loved ones are important for any healthy lifestyle but don't forget that they are especially important when you are very stressed. A calm voice, even when you hear it for a minute, helps you see things in a different light.

Consider dietary supplements

Several supplements encourage the reduction of stress and anxiety. Some of the most commonly used supplements are based on:

Roinita (Melissa officinalis) - this plant has long been studied for its effects against anxiety;

Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids - A study found that medical students who received Omega-3 fatty acid supplements had a 20% reduction in anxiety symptoms;

Green Tea - Green tea leaves contain many antioxidants (polyphenols), which have many health benefits; Green tea reduces stress and anxiety, increasing serotonin levels.

Because some dietary supplements may interact with medications or have side effects, seek medical advice if you have a medical condition before taking these products. If your doctor tells you that there is no problem, you can choose, during stressful periods, to take supplements that help the brain function properly and help reduce stress "inside".