7 Tips to Reduce Stress

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When it comes to reducing stress, different techniques work for different people. So if you’ve tried some strategies to reduce stress but found they didn’t work for you, try something else. Here are some popular techniques I use to reduce stress. I hope a few of them work for you too.

 

  • Practice positive thinking. When you talk to yourself and others, focus on what CAN be done, rather than what can’t be done. 
  • Exercise. Staying fit can reduce the production of stress hormones. This includes some cardiovascular exercise (walking qualifies), some weight exercise, and definitely some stretching. As the body ages, muscles lose mass and shrink. Therefore, exercise is definitely beneficial.
  • Eat Healthy. A well-functioning body is better at managing stress. I now use a 7-word diet made famous by Michael Pollan: “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” Additionally, before I eat anything, I ask myself if it is “real food.” If it is not, I find it much easier not to eat it.
  • Practice relaxation techniques. For example, mentally scan your body parts for tight muscles, and imagine their relaxing.
  • Take time for yourself. Rather than cramming more into a busy schedule, find ways to leave things out. I also find that the less clutter I have, the simpler and more enjoyable is my life. Rather than clutter, I even find joy in trashing items I would never use again.
  • Cut stress at home. Redefine clean so everything doesn’t have to sparkle.
  • Plan to deal with stress at work. Deal with the most unpleasant tasks early in the day when your energy is at its highest.

Tip: When it comes to reducing stress, there is no “one size fits all” technique. Experiment with several strategies to discover what works best for you.

You can get many more empowering tips like this one in my award-winning book, Live Without Stress: How to Enjoy the Journey. Buy one and get one free as a gift. You will not want to depart with your own copy. Be sure to check out the Without Stress Facebook Group where you can connect with other life-minded people on a journey to reduce stress.

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