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  21 Ways To De-Stress Without Prescriptions

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21 Ways To De-Stress Without Prescriptions

1.       Take a deep breath! Taking slow, deep breaths can help promote relaxation

2.       Visualize a calming/relaxing scene such as the waves on the beach.

3.       Go for a walk; regular exercise helps reduce stress. Tai Chi and yoga are particularly helpful for reducing stress.

4.       Get adequate sleep at night – fatigue can worsen your response to stress.

5.       Eat whole grains, vegetables and fruits as they contain nutrients that support the body during stress.

6.       Fish, flaxseed and hemp contain fatty acids that support proper brain and nervous system function.

7.       Avoid processed/fast foods as they contain refined starch, sugars and other chemicals that can cause irritability and worsen stress.

8.       Minimize the coffee and soda. These beverages contain caffeine which can worsen stress and anxiety.

9.       Have a piece of chocolate – really! Chocolate helps boost serotonin levels and it also contains magnesium – substances that will help to relax you.

10.   Consider a daily B-complex vitamin. The B-vitamins support nervous system function.

11.   Consider a supplement containing Suntheanine (L-theanine). This amino acid, which is naturally present in green tea, can help reduce stress, promote a calm        feeling and improve sleep quality.

12.   Embrace family and friends. Studies show that close relationships contribute to less stress and a longer life.

13.   Acknowledge your stress triggers (traffic, fighting children, work) and work on training your mind to react differently to stress triggers.

14.   Learn to be more flexible and let go of the things you cannot control.

15.   Develop good time-management and organizational skills to help reduce stressful situations from occurring.

16.   Take time for yourself, even if it is only 20 minutes to work on promoting relaxation.

17.   To relax in the evening take a bath with lavender salts.

18.   A warm cup of chamomile tea can help promote calming.

19.   Massage therapy and acupuncture can help reduce stress and relax muscles that tense up during stress.

20.   Don't smoke – smoking can worsen stress and cause nervous system damage.

21.   Consult with a professional – a therapist can help you develop tools to better deal with stress.

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