Ask an Expert: Five Tips for Busting Stress

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Stress – we all have it, whether it’s at work, home or places in between. There are times when we feel especially stressed due to a bad interaction or everyday hassles like traffic. No one’s life is completely stress free, but regular negative stress can keep us from feeling and performing at our best; therefore, it’s important that we learn how to manage it.

There are activities we can incorporate into our daily lives to manage or prevent a build-up of negative stress. These include things such as regular physical activity, getting enough sleep, meditation, etc. However, there are times when we need in-the-moment stress stoppers. Consider these five ideas.

Count to 10 before you react. Even a short pause can help you think clearly.

Leave the situation and go for a walk. A change of scenery can be beneficial in thinking the situation through.

Break down big problems into smaller parts, then you can take it one step at a time.

Turn on relaxing music or an inspirational podcast.

Take a few slow, deep breaths. To do this, try the breathe-deep challenge. Count to four as you breathe in. Hold for four counts. Breathe out for four counts. Repeat four or more times, or until you feel your body un-clench a bit. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Let your belly expand. Relax your body as you breathe.