At one time or another, we may all find ourselves feeling stressed.  Stress comes in all forms, but there steps we can take to cope with it on a day to day basis.  However, if your stress is affecting your health, or you are suffering from depression, it is advisable you seek professional help.

Try some deep breathing exercises such as inhaling deeply through your nose from your abdomen and exhale out slowly through your mouth.  If this is done correctly, as you inhale you abdomen will rise, but your chest will move very little.  The more oxygen you get, the less tense, short of breath, and stressed you should feel.

Exercise. Choose the right exercise and you’ll feel both energised and relaxed. Yoga and Tai Chi are excellent for reinstalling calm by focusing on breathing and centring the mind; taking a walk in the fresh air will also go a long way to giving you a sense of balance and well being.  Physical activity plays a key role in reducing and preventing the effects of stress. See if you can make room in your diary for at least 30 minutes of exercise, three times a week.

Massage. Mixing a few drops of aromatherapy oils into some plain massage oil will make the experience even better. The right oils used in a massage can help relieve fatigue and stress.

Eat a healthy diet. Try and ensure that your diet is balanced and contains as much of the recommended daily allowance of vitamins and minerals as possible.  Well-nourished bodies are better prepared to cope with stress, so be mindful of what you eat. The benefits of starting the day with breakfast are well documented so if you have never done so before, try now.  Focus on keeping energy levels up and your mind clear with balanced, nutritious meals throughout the day.

Don’t forget your beauty sleep. The number of hours needed for a good night’s sleep varies from one person to the next, so work out what is sufficient for you.  Adequate sleep fuels our mind and bodies, thereby reducing stress.

My final tip is to try and connect with others. Spend time with positive people who enhance your life; a strong support system will go a long way in buffering you from the effects of stress.