1. Increase Physical Activity

Many studies have shown that an active body can help reduce stress levels and improve mood. Exercise in general can improve symptoms of mental health conditions, such as anxiety. There are many activities that can be done, such as joining classes provided by fitness centers.

If you are not currently physically active, then start with light activities, such as walking or cycling. This way, you can enjoy the scenery, which can bring you into a different frame of mind. The point is, increase your physical activity and choose according to your interest and time availability.

Get your body moving

2. Implement a Nutritionally Balanced Diet

Implementing a nutritionally balanced diet is one of the strategies to increase the body's resilience to ward off stress in the long run. Poor dietary habits can lead to greater reactivity to stress, such as ultra processed food, junk food, and foods with high sugar content.  

On the other hand, stress can also trigger poor eating patterns. This condition makes a person overeat. Therefore, by adopting a nutritionally balanced diet, the body is not only stronger to ward off stress, but can also fulfill its nutritional needs and improve overall health.

3. Self-care

There is nothing wrong with taking the time to do some self-care. This has been proven to help reduce stress levels. Self-care is not only about going to the salon or going shopping, but it can be done by doing things that you enjoy. Some examples are as follows:

• Using aromatherapy

• Soaking in a bathtub

• Massage

• Reading motivational, self-improvement, or self-care books

• Practicing a hobby

• Honing your creativity

• Taking care of plants

• Positive self-talk

• Journaling

• Express gratitude for yourself

4. Spend Time with Family

Social support from family, friends or partners can help us to get through difficult times that often make stress levels rise. Ask them to listen to you, give them a hug, and tell them everything you have to say. If they aren't currently available, then try to expand your network. Join a social group or see a mental health professional.

Spend your time with the loved ones

5. Set Boundaries and Dare to Say "No"

Stress triggers can come from things we can't control. Therefore, have the courage to say "no", especially if you can't handle it because there are many other responsibilities that must also be completed. In addition, create clear boundaries, especially regarding things that you find annoying, such as canceling an event unexpectedly, coming unannounced, or just information on social media.

6. Set Priorities and Don't Procrastinate

Stress can be controlled if we are able to prioritize things and not procrastinate to complete them. Putting off a task will only trigger a higher level of stress because you have to catch up. Work on tasks or responsibilities in order of priority at a time. When you're done, take a break, and continue the next day.

7. Relaxation Methods

There are various relaxation methods that have been proven to relieve stress, such as yoga, meditation, muscle relaxation, and breathing exercises. These methods can be done at home by watching YouTube or calling a professional teacher to help guide the process.

So, before stress leads to other more serious conditions, it's good for us to do the above strategies to relieve the symptoms. It is quite easy, for example by increasing physical activity, implementing a balanced nutritious diet, self-care, spending time with family, dare to say no, set priorities, or relaxation. Which ones have you done?

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