Deep breathing is a fantastic way to help manage stress and anxiety. It is impossible to be in a state of high emotion when breathing deeply.
Find out what causes you stress
. Note possible triggers, and reduce the impact of these by changing your thoughts and behaviours.
. Adopt a healthy lifestyle
. By eating a healthy diet, taking regular exercise, and getting regular rest, your body is better able to cope with stress when it occurs.
. Know your limitations and do not take on too much
. Stress can be caused by taking on too much, delegate and set boundaries to avoid over committing yourself.
. Manage your time effectively
. Prioritise your tasks, completing the most important jobs first. Don’t put off the unpleasant tasks, avoidance causes a great deal of stress.
. Avoid unnecessary conflict
. Seek a win-win resolution to a dispute so both parties can achieve a positive outcome.
. Accept the things you cannot change
. Changing a difficult situation is not always possible. If this proves to be the case, recognise and accept things as they are and concentrate on all that you do have control over.
. Take time out to relax and recharge your batteries
. To perform effectively take short 10-15 minute breaks during the day to relax. And don’t forget to use your annual holiday allowance!
. Find time to meet friends
. Catching up with friends can help us to relax. In turn, this boosts the immune system, which is depleted during times of stress.
. Try to see things differently, develop a positive thinking style
. If something is concerning you, talk to a friend, colleague or family member. They could help you to see things from a different perspective, reducing stress.
. Avoid alcohol, nicotine and caffeine as coping mechanisms.
. Over time these coping mechanisms will just add to the problem.