Have a Year of Less Stress With These Tips
By Brandi Goodman
A new year provides an opportunity to start over -- but you have to know how to do that. It can be difficult to try something new when you're used to doing things a certain way. Starting your year and continuing it with less stress is possible with a few tips in mind. As long as you make the effort to make some changes, you can enjoy a much less stressful year than you may have in the past.
Laugh Every Day
Spending time laughing is great for your mental health. It releases endorphins that can make you feel good. Find ways to laugh every day, even if it means spending a few minutes here and there cackling at cat videos.
Spend Your Break Outside
Being cooped up indoors all the time can start to dampen your mood. You may begin to feel stuck in a routine. Spend your break outside and you may just find yourself in better spirits. Getting fresh air can do your mind a lot of good. It gives you a chance to get away from the stress at work. When you're feeling upset at home the same rule applies. Get outside for a break to get your mind right.
Get More Sleep
This may be easier said than done for most people but more sleep is what you need for less stress. We tend to get overwhelmed and snap easily when we had poor rest the night before. If you find yourself frequently laying awake at night, tossing and turning, then a new sleep routine may be in order. Start by determining if your pillows or mattress needs replacing. Mattresses should be replaced every 8 years or so. If you're staying up late on your phone, try to put it away sooner. The light can make it hard for your mind to shut down as it still thinks it's daytime. Darker, thicker curtains can help as well as they cut out the noise and light.
Have Alone Time
Constantly being surrounded by others can start to make it difficult to distinguish your own thoughts and desires from theirs. You need alone time regularly so you can decompress and let the weight of the world fall off your shoulders. Pencil in some "me time" on your weekly calendar if you must to get this much needed time away from it all.
Have a year of less stress with these tips in mind. You should do all you can to clear your mind each day of everything that's caused stress for you. Find more time for yourself and spend time laughing and enjoying the company of those you love for better mental well-being as the year commences.
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