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As much as I love the holiday season, I do find myself getting stressed and tired more often around this time of year, especially as it draws to an end. That’s not to say I don’t get stressed during the non-holiday season, but it can heighten this time of year. Here are 7 tips you can use (any time of the year) to remain calm when you’re faced with a situation that intensifies your stress levels:
1. Take a deep breath.
I’m sure you’ve heard this one before. There’s a reason for that; breathing works to calm the body. You will instantly notice a physical difference in how your body is reacting to the situation. Once the body relaxes, the mind follows.
2. Smile and Laugh.
Smiling can trick your brain into making it think you are happy. Seriously. Smiling also lowers your stress hormone function, bring those cortisol and adrenaline levels way down. Before you know it, you’ll actually feel happier from smiling!
3. Let art or writing absorb your stress.
Having a moment of difficulty and just can’t seem to calm down? Head to your rose gold office accessories, grab your pen set for women and a piece of paper, and allow your emotions to fill the page. Maybe you want to write about everything that’s causing you stress. Perhaps you want to draw a picture of how you feel right now. Either way, you can burn it after you’re done. Letting your emotions out in writing and letting it go is a great way to calm down.
4. Step out of your perspective.
If you can, try to step out of your perspective of the situation, causing you stress. What are some of the positives that you can see? Maybe you are arguing with a family member and are just so upset. Take a step back and try to see their point of view. Perhaps they’ve never had to experience what you have, so they don’t understand or vice versa.
5. Dial-up a friend.
Sometimes the best thing you can hear is the sound of a friendly voice. In times of need, the people who love you will be there. Whether you need to vent, cry, laugh, or scream, it’s important to have someone you can do those things with. It takes courage to ask for help, but it’s never the wrong move.
6. Listen to music.
Often when we are in a difficult situation or feeling stressed, our minds go all over the place. A straightforward technique I like to use when I’m overthinking: pop in the headphones and turn on some calming music. Maybe you enjoy classical or jazz music, perhaps it’s hip-hop, or it could be the sound of waves crashing into the land. Whatever your style, allow yourself to really listen to the music and notice how your mind calms.
7. Take a walk.
Not only is it a pleasant and gentle exercise, but walking is also a great way to reduce stress. Your body begins moving, blood is pumping, and anxiety begins to melt away. You’re also outside, which helps reduce stress in itself. By moving that body, you’re getting out of your head.
