In these uncertain and chaotic times, it’s natural to experience stress. There is so much moving and changing all around us, and it can be hard to keep up with it all – let alone to keep up with managing our own mental, emotional, and physical health.
Stress can manifest in many ways. Some people experience stress in the form of headaches and chronic pain. Others may experience it as anxiety, constant worry, or even depressive episodes. All of these experiences are normal, and all can be treated with care and respect in order to improve your overall well-being.
But, you might be asking yourself: where do I start? There are so many articles, videos, and self-help gurus who recommend vastly different methods to improve well-being and reduce stress in the body and mind. The best way to find what works for you is to experiment! Read on to discover our top eight ways to find stress-relief during Quarantine and experience relaxation and relief from the effects of stress!
1. Positive affirmations
Did you know that your mood, your health, and your energy can be influenced by the way you speak to yourself? Negative self-talk – especially if it is chronic – can lead to all kinds of issues, including depression and chronic pain. Luckily, you can set up new habits for yourself. It takes some effort, but it will be worth it in the end.
Spend some time and identify the patterns of negative self-talk you find yourself engaging in. It could be as simple as beating up on yourself after you’ve made a mistake, or always thinking “I’m not intelligent/capable /seasoned enough for this project”. Then, find ways to change those statements into empowering statements, instead. You can even write down post-it notes and attach them to your mirror, so every morning you can start the day with some positive self-talk!
2. Yoga
The ancient practice of yoga has been known for centuries to be an incredibly beneficial way to improve the health of your body, mind, and emotional centers. A combination of gentle movements, mindfulness, and breathing techniques allows the body and mind to relax and unwind, letting go of worries, concerns, fears, and old wounds in the process.
Depending on what style of yoga you are interested in, you can easily find videos and diagrams to show you which postures might be most beneficial for you. Whether you choose gentle restorative yoga, a breath-centered practice like Kundalini, or a powerful flow practice, you will feel the effects of enhanced well-being in no time.
3. Sleep
Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. Not only does it provide the necessary time for the body to repair and restore itself, your mental and emotional state also can suffer greatly if you’re not experiencing deep and restful sleep at night.
If you’re struggling with sleep, try drinking a cup of herbal tea before bed, and maybe even add in a hot bath with Epsom salts as well. Make sure to turn off electronic devices at least an hour before you head to bed to allow your brain to wind down from the stimulation. And try spraying your pillows with Lavender essential oil pillow mist – it’s extremely relaxing to the mind, body, and spirit.
4. CBD Products
CBD is one of the most exciting new products available on the natural market today, and with good reason! CBD, also known as hemp flower, provides the benefits of hemp without the psychoactive effects. There are too many benefits to count, but some include easing anxiety, helping digestion, improving sleep, and reducing chronic pain.
CBD is available in a variety of forms, including salves, oils, and edibles. Finding a reputable supplier will help you ensure that you’re getting the best quality CBD for your self-care – visit carolinahempcompany.com to see some of our preferred selections from a favorite supplier.
5. Reflexology
Did you know that there are many powerful points on your feet that correspond to all of the organs within your body? The ancient art of Reflexology utilizes this wisdom and knowledge to gently help the body achieve a balance where it is lacking.
Take some time at the end of the day (especially before bed) to give yourself a gentle, slow foot massage with jojoba oil, coconut oil, or olive oil. You can even choose to add in your favorite essential oil to multiply the benefits! Some of our favorites are lavender, peppermint, frankincense, or rose essential oils – all of which promote relaxation and center the mind.
6. Coloring and journaling
It may sound simple, but the benefits of stress-relief techniques that connect with your innate creativity have been well documents, especially over the last few years! Depending on what way you most enjoy expressing yourself – with words, music, or visual art – you can find a therapeutic method that nourishes that passion as well as assists you with relaxing your mind, body, and spirit.
If you enjoy color and visual art, procuring a guided mediation coloring book can bring huge relief to your nervous system. The pleasure of seeing beautiful colors fill in the picture, coupled with the satisfaction of completing a project, can ease anxiety and depression. Setting aside some time to a journal can also be extremely beneficial, as your journal can become a safe space where you are free to express your innermost feelings, desires, and dreams.
7. Exercise in the fresh air
We all know that exercise is healthy for us, and should be part of our regular routine, but making sure to enjoy exercise along with fresh air and sunshine is a very well-rounded health booster! Not only does getting adequate sunshine to improve your immune system and skin radiance, but it also has been shown to improve your mood as well.
It’s hard to feel bogged down with worries and fears when your heart is racing and you’re taking in the beauty of nature! Go for a run around your neighborhood, or take a walk in the woods. Spending time near running water is also a very well-known stress reliever that can create amazing results in your mental space when you get home.
8. Care for a plant
Finally, one of the sweetest and easiest ways to relax and improve your mental state is to connect with nature through caring for a plant. Now, you don’t have to be a master gardener; even just placing a succulent or a small house plant on your desk or in your bedroom can help you “get out of your mind” through caring for another living being. Plants have also been proven to improve the air quality in your home, which reaps amazing benefits for your immune system and your respiratory system.
As you can see you can make small steps every day towards your goal of living a more balanced, positive, and stress-free life. Just try one or two of our ideas today, and we know you will start feeling better in no time! Never underestimate the power of a positive mindset and experimentation to discover the best ways to take care of YOU.
