First of all, realise that all of us feel stress to some degree. Its natural, so there is no need to feel overwhelmed or to make a massive drama out of the fact you feel stressed. Simply recognise it, accept it, name it and then act on it.
Now I do not want to add to your stress levels by listing too many options of how to relieve or reduce the stress, so I am going to offer only 3.
1) MEDITATE
It’s the best way to take your mind away from the thoughts that are causing you the stress.
Simply sit down in a comfortable position, close your eyes and focus on your breathing.
IGNORE everything else, just focus on the breathing.
Count as you inhale, 1-2-3-4…. then hold your breath for 2 counts and then release…and count as you go …
Do this for at least 5 breaths and then you will see a huge difference.
You will notice that your racing thoughts slow down, calmness returns and clarity results.
2) LAUGH it off
Take yourself to see a funny movie or click on the “Crazy Animal You-Tube Videos “ and simply laugh.
You cannot be happy and stressed at the same time – so LAUGH.
It’s a great way to release pent up emotions.
Positive hormones are released when you laugh and so the stress melts away.
3) SLEEP it off
Before you sleep ask yourself this simple question;
“ Will this really matter in 5 / 10 / 15 years from now? ”
Then repeat this phrase “ I am at peace …I am at peace… I am at peace…” and off you go…..
You will wake refreshed and more able to calmly deal with the situation that caused you stress in the first place.
Vikas Malkani
