10 Kick Arse Ways To Abate Stress

“Stress is the trash of modern life – we all generate it but if you don’t dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life.”~Terri Guillemets

Written by Kevin Tyler Smith. You can follow me on Twitter or Facebook

Stress-relieving techniques are becoming more in demand today because more and more people are getting overworked and underpaid.

The current global crisis going on and the rise of pollution and industrialization has also contributed to a lot of disease and stress.

I know first hand the havoc that mis-managed stress can wreak on the body. I’ve got the MRI’s and doctor’s receipts to prove it.

The year was 2002, the worst year of my life. I thought the life as I had known it was over. What I was convinced was a critical life debilitating illness I had, was actually stress and anxiety manifesting in bodily symptoms. So I’m far from a novice on the toll stress can have on the mind and body. Stress can have awful consequences if not managed properly.

It is important that you learn a few simple ways to reduce stress effectively. These techniques do not necessarily have to be expensive or require much of your time.

Here’s how to start.

Rest

1. Sleep more. A lot of people today are only getting 4 hours or less of sleep each night because of demanding schedules. It is important to get at least 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night. Make your bed comfortable and ensure that you have adequate ventilation. The bedroom should be a place of solace and comfort from the pressures of the outside world. Learn the art of effective productivity to get a grip on that demanding schedule.

2. Nap a bit. When time allows, take some time to grab a quick nap even if its just for 15 minutes. This will help boost your mental and physical condition. You can perform better for longer hours by getting some extra sleep during the day to boost endurance and strength.

“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.” ~J. Lubbock

Fitness

3. Join a team. Try a new sport or get better with your current one by joining a team and playing in contests and tournaments. You can burn fat, get rid of stress and boost your confidence by mingling with other athletes. You also become more aware about the importance of teamwork and leadership. This is a great activity to bond with co-workers.

4. Get a gym membership. You should try to get some exercise at least 2 times a week or do some cardiovascular activity 3 to 4 times each week. Jog first thing in the morning or bike to work. Make some changes in your routine like taking the stairs more, taking a brisk walk or even jogging in place during your lunch break.

Excursions

5. Shop. Treat yourself to a number of things after a whole week of school or work. Buy yourself something that will help boost your morale and self-confidence like a new pair of jeans or a new shirt. You can also buy the bigger stuff like a new watch or even a new car, depending on your budget. Spend a little to feel that you’re getting paid for what you’re worth.

6. Go out on dates. Dating greatly enhances your self-esteem and is a good motivator to keep working out and eating healthier. Dating encourages you to enhance your wardrobe and as the old saying goes, “when you look good, you feel good”.

“The healthy being craves an occasional wildness, a jolt from normality, a sharpening of the edge of appetite, his own little festival of Saturnalia, a brief excursion from his way of life.” ~Robert Maclver

Fellowship

7. Call your parents. If you’ve been away for quite some time, it will significantly reduce stress if you contact some family and friends from far away. Check how well they’re doing and try to plan some time to get together. Keep in touch with your parents and kids if they’re in college. You can get in touch with your own emotions and feelings as well by connecting with loved ones more often.

Extracurricular

8. Learn music. Try to indulge in music by joining a singing class, the church choir or learning a new instrument. Think of your favorite genre, get the sheet music and choose the right medium which you can work on during times of stress. Playing music can eradicate pressure in just a matter of minutes.

9. Dare more. Treat yourself to some risky adventures like white water rafting, rock climbing or driving a NASCAR stock car. These activities give you the needed rush to let go of all your problems and just learn how to face the challenges of life on a daily basis.

Cause

10. Fight for something. Join a useful program or a benefits group to help other people in need. Giving and generosity will help you let go of stress and helps to give your life added meaning. You can join the group and cause which you believe in like helping abused kids, anti-drug campaigns or church organizations. The opportunities are endless.

The truth is, you have the power to manage the stress that has been placing a burden on you. Do not let it continue wreaking havoc in your life.

My friend, the time has come to alleviate your stress today. Are you ready?

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*photo credit: gaetan lee