Is happiness elusive or is there a method to it? Mental health experts around the world say that despite our challenges, happiness is a choice. Science has provided us ways to help keep stress at bay. Most of these are easy to follow, so keep calm and read on...
Take a 10-min walk
A quiet, relaxing stroll can do wonders to your body and mind, preferably in a green space – it really clears your mind.
Listen to music
This is a no brainer – put on any music you enjoy and you will see how it takes your mind off stress. It fills your brain with feel-good neurochemicals like dopamine. Plus, it is a soothing way to cut stress down.
Take a snack break
Treat yourself to something sweet. It will soothe your senses resulting in the secretion of a stress hormone called glucocorticoid. But just don’t over-do it, else you will end up gaining weight.
Chew some gum
Sure, chewing gum freshens up your breath, but did you know studies have suggested that the act of chewing gum reduces stress and anxiety by reducing cortisol levels.
Vent it out – in written words
Writing has a meditative and reflective effect on your mind. When you write down your thoughts on a piece of paper you are able to reflect upon it, introspect and put things in perspective. It is cathartic that is it provides psychological relief through open expression of strong emotions.
Visualise nature
It is said that visualising a calm nature scene can help reduce stress levels and ease anxiety. You can surf nature albums on the internet.
Breathe in DEEP and breathe out stress
It’s a well-known fact that the breath holds an important place in our health. Therefore, breathing exercises can help you relax and nourish the body.
Take a nap
Napping has been found to help stressed-out people relieve their anxiety. Research shows that you can make yourself more alert and reduce stress with a nap.
Exercise regularly
This is good news for all the fitness lovers. Exercising during stress, even for few minutes, releases a rush of endorphins – the chemical that keeps the pain of stress in check.
Sip a refreshing beverage
Studies have found that having refreshing drinks — be it a cup of herbal tea, lemonade or a glass of fresh orange juice — reduces stress levels.
Hug a loved one
It’s a proven fact — skin-to-skin contact either kissing, hugging or even just a touch — releases chemicals that are responsible for lowering stress levels. So the next time you feel sad, hug your parents, best friend or a pet, and bid adieu to stress.
Buy a pot plant or two
Apart from being effective air purifiers, plants can actually help you calm down and boost your mood. Studies have found that the presence of potted plants are linked with reduction in feelings of anxiety.
Have a hearty laugh
Try to laugh a lot – watch a cute cat video, a sitcom, read a funny book, etc. Laughter enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs and muscles, and increases the endorphins released by brain.
Readers, share your thoughts on the things that make you HAPPY in life. We are waiting to hear from you...