Natural Ways to Reduce Stress

By Donna Stark

Whether it's the challenges you face at work or the problems you go home to, there always seems to be something during your days that causes more stress than you would like to deal with. And unfortunately, this break in harmony can lead to a break in good health if you don't do anything about it. But you can't just choose anything. You want to make sure that what you do choose is good for your overall health and wellness. Need some suggestions? Here are several ways you can reduce the stress in your life that are both natural and positive.

Exercise

Daily exercise is a great way to manage stress and anxiety. It increases the production of endorphins (the body's feel-good chemicals), promotes quality sleep, releases tension, and improves clarity and focus. Activities such as running, swimming, cycling, lifting, and even walking have all been shown to help reduce stress. If you want to double up on your benefits, take these activities outside! You can't go wrong with your decision to work out with Mother Nature by your side.

Laughter

You've heard the saying, but is it true? You bet it is! Laughter really is the best medicine you can find. Laughter can make a bad day turn good by releasing endorphins, shifting perspective, and changing the course of your emotions. In other words, it makes you feel good. Get more laughter in your life by hanging out with the class clown, watching funny videos, or talking to your best friend.

Pets

It has been shown that playing with, caring for, and petting an animal can reduce the amount of stress, loneliness, and depression in your life. So, if you ever needed a reason to buy yourself a cute little kitten or a rambunctious little puppy, here it is. Just make sure your home and schedule are well-suited for the challenge!

Service

Sometimes, stress may cause you to pull away from others and retreat into your own little world of dysfunction, but if you focus your attention on others, you can reduce the risk of that happening. Helping other people can distract you from the imbalance that is occurring in your own life and will force you to think about something else. It may even leave you feeling more confident and stronger than ever before, which will always help out in the long run.

Positive Stress Management

It may be a hard pill to swallow, but it's important to acknowledge that stress will always find its way into your life. Hopefully, though, the suggestions above will help you manage it in a more natural and productive way.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Highlands Ranch, Colo.