Life can get hectic, but that doesn’t mean that stress should get the best of you. There are plenty of small, simple changes you can make to your daily routine that will help put your mind at ease. We’ve created a list of five of our favorite suggestions for getting rid of daily stresses so you can go about your day stress-free.
5 Ways to Reduce Stress Aside From Massage Therapy
1. Pet an animal.
An increasing amount of schools and offices are realizing the stress-relief benefits that petting animals can have. Studies show that playing with or petting an animal increases levels of serotonin and dopamine, and decreases production of the stress hormone cortisol.
2. Start and end your day with calm.
Whether it’s practicing yoga, a hot cup of tea, or reading a book, whatever brings your peace of mind should be the first thing you do when you wake up and last thing you do before you go to bed. Make sure to set some time aside in the morning and evening for the little things that make you happy.
3. Don’t skip your lunch break.
Breaks are incredibly important in helping us keep our composure and reminding us to relax. While it’s easy to skip over your daily lunch break, try to resist the temptation. Your mind and body will thank you. Even five minutes of a time-out is enough to do the trick.
4. Squeeze in a workout.
It may feel like the last thing you want to do when you’re stressed, but studies show that exercising reduces fatigue and increases alertness and overall brain function. This is incredibly important when stress has zapped your ability to focus.
5. Hug someone.
Hugs are great stress relievers because they cause your body to release oxytocin, which leads to relaxation. They’re also incredibly important in building trust and maintaining relationships. Dr. Paul Zak recommends at least 8 hugs a day in order to keep your relationships strong.
Dealing with stress is inevitable, but by using these five simple anti-stress tips, you’ll be able to manage your stress more effectively. Contact us today to book your next massage appointment.